While smoking rates are declining in other parts of the world, data shows that the African region and other Low-Income Countries are seeing a rise in new smokers, particularly among the young population.
World Health Organisation estimates that over 7 million people and about 600,000 non-smokers every year die from tobacco-related diseases.
In an interview with allAfrica, Kenyan Medical Doctor and Health Editor, Dr Mercy Korir said effective education was the panacea to enhancing Africa’s Tobacco Harm Reduction efforts. Kenya has seen some success with public health campaigns and smoke-free legislation. Efforts to educate the public about the dangers of smoking have led to increased awareness and a notable drop in the number of smokers.
Joseph Magero, the Chairman of Campaign for Safer Alternatives , a Pan-African THR advocacy organisation said many people across Africa lack sufficient knowledge about the harmful effects of traditional tobacco use, as well as the availability and potential benefits of safer alternatives like e-cigarettes or nicotine replacement therapies .
“There is widespread confusion about the relative harms of smoking and THR products such as e-cigarettes or nicotine replacement therapies. Misinformation, sometimes perpetuated by media or poorly informed sources, causes people to equate the risks of THR products with those of traditional cigarettes. Anti-tobacco groups often emphasise total cessation, framing all nicotine products as dangerous.
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