The World Health Organization has released new statistics regarding May 31 – World No Tobacco Day.
Medianews.az reports this referring to Bakues.az.
According to WHO data, at least 40 million children and adolescents aged 13-15 worldwide use tobacco products. The organization notes that the use of electronic cigarettes and nicotine pouches is also increasing among young people.
WHO states that tobacco and nicotine companies use various marketing methods especially to make their products more appealing to adolescents. The use of these products is facilitated and quitting is made more difficult.
WHO emphasizes that nicotine is a highly addictive and harmful substance particularly for children and adolescents whose brain development is still ongoing. Governments can protect the population by banning flavored products, restricting advertising and sponsorship, making indoor spaces completely free of cigarettes and electronic cigarettes, and strengthening control measures.
WHO also noted that recently nicotine pouches, rapidly spreading, are aggressively promoted through social media influencers. According to the organization's report, approximately 160 countries lack specific regulatory rules for these products. Bright packaging, various flavors, and advertising campaigns are shown as the main tools aimed at creating addiction among young people.
According to WHO data, tobacco use causes the death of more than 7 million people annually. Tobacco can also cause cardiovascular and respiratory system diseases as well as more than 20 types of cancer.