Deadly habit

As Pakistan continues to grapple with the devastating consequences of smoking, the need for a robust anti-smoking campaign has never been more urgent. Recent reports highlight a staggering annual death toll from smoking, significantly higher than the averages seen not only in South Asia but globally. With a death rate of 91.1 per 100,000 people, tobacco is responsible for taking thousands of lives prematurely, leaving behind shattered families and stressing the already overburdened healthcare system. The grim reality is that, despite a relative decrease in smoking-related death rates over the past few decades, Pakistan has also lagged behind its neighbours in the rate of decline. This slow progress calls into question our commitment to public health and the effectiveness of current policies regarding tobacco control.

Another distressing finding, from a recent study, is the shocking prevalence of second-hand smoke exposure, which affects a staggering 95% of children in Pakistan and Bangladesh. This is not simply a public health issue but a moral crisis. Children deserve to grow up in a healthy environment, free from the harmful effects of tobacco smoke, which increases their risk of respiratory infections and other serious health complications. In most countries, smoking near children, or allowing children in areas where smoking is allowed, are both punishable by heavy fines. Here, it is commonplace. Even the parents and grandparents of young children can often be seen blowing smoke into their underdeveloped lungs. Educational attainment and income are often non-factors.

Current policies, such as K-P's long-pending anti-smoking law, must be prioritised and enacted without delay. It is imperative that the government heeds the calls of citizens and health advocacy groups. By strengthening laws around smoking, increasing public awareness and providing resources for those who wish to quit, we can turn the tide against this preventable epidemic.