Dhaka: President Mohammed Shahabuddin today called for creating mass awareness and ensuring strict enforcement of relevant laws to prevent tobacco addiction. The President made the call in a message marking the ‘World No-Tobacco Day’.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, President Shahabuddin emphasized the detrimental impact of tobacco cultivation, processing, and usage on public health, the environment, and the economy. He highlighted that tobacco use significantly increases the risk of life-threatening diseases such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
The President pointed out that nearly 200,000 people succumb to tobacco-related diseases each year in Bangladesh, creating a substantial burden on families and hindering national development. He noted the concerning trend of young people being drawn into smoking due to the appealing promotional campaigns by tobacco companies.
Highlighting this year’s ‘World No-Tobacco Day’ theme, ‘Unmask the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products’, President Shahabuddin stressed its relevance in shielding people, especially the youth, from the allure of tobacco and nicotine products.
He expressed optimism that the effective implementation and strict enforcement of the Smoking and Tobacco Products Usage (Control) (Amendment) Act, 2026, would play a pivotal role in safeguarding women, children, and the younger generation from the adverse effects of tobacco.
President Shahabuddin urged the administration, civil society, relevant organizations, and the mass media to collaborate in raising awareness against tobacco use. He extended his best wishes for the success of all initiatives undertaken to commemorate ‘World No-Tobacco Day 2026’.