To combat smoking

The World Health Organisation is advocating a new way to combat smoking, after all other methods of persuasion or dissuasion have failed, and it is simply a dramatic increase in taxes on tobacco products.

In its just released report, titled “The Global Tobacco Epidemic 2015”, WHO wants countries to augment tax levies on tobacco products to reach no less than 75 per cent of their price to the public.

“Raising taxes on tobacco products is one of the most effective and cost effective ways to reduce consumption of products that kill while also generating substantial revenues,” said WHO Director General Margaret Chan.

The health organisation’s report also notes that tobacco is one of the four main risk factors for non-communicable diseases, which comprise cancer, cardiovascular and lung diseases, and diabetes.

Figures reveal that 80 per cent of all deaths worldwide related to tobacco consumption occur in poor and middle-income countries, where awareness and tobacco prices are lower.

The report paints a grim picture for human health if nations do not take the fight against tobacco more seriously: One human being dies very six seconds because of tobacco use.

The report should sound the alarm worldwide.

In Jordan, which has yet to win the battle against tobacco consumption, including the ubiquitous, highly “fashionable”, hubble-bubble, by first winning the battle against special interests, much more needs to be done.

Like many other developing countries, Jordan has to take more effective measures against smoking, especially in public places.

People are still smoking in malls, in open areas and in public institutions, often under the very sign prohibiting smoking.

Countries that do not deal vigorously with this harmful habit simply do not put a premium on human life and fail to prioritise health concerns. It is a price paid not just by smokers, but by society at large.

WHO suggests one way that could indeed be effective in combating smoking.

Countries should take it from there and do their part. The result would be of benefit through and through.