Vietnam has one of the highest adult male smoking rates in the world. It also has one of the lowest adult female smoking rates in the world. Onset of tobacco use appears to be in very late adolescence and early adulthood. In an effort to reduce the male smoking rate and maintan the low female smoking rate, the Vietnamese government has been worng working toward a comprehensive national tobacco policy. This is developing through the visionary leadership of VINACOSH, an interministerial committee, with representatives of all Ministeries of the government, focusing on smoking and health. The policy has two major objectives: reduction of demand and control of supply of tobacco. The policy places heavy emphasis on reduction of use for men, retainng the low use level for women and protecting the rights of non-smokers to breath clean, smoke-free air. This comprehensive policy has emerged with the support of the Swedish government (InDevelop), the efforts of short-term advisors and the commitment of the Vietnamese government. While serving as short-term advisors, May 1999, an assessment was made of the considerable assets that will support the implementation of the policy and the challenges that may be experienced. These will be reviewed in this presentation.
Learning Objectives: 1. Participants will acquire a broader perspective of the complex issues that must be considered when developing and implementing a comprehensive tobacco policy. 2. Participants will be able to state the types of assets and challenges to be considered when implementing the tobacco policy in Vietnam
Keywords: Tobacco Policy, Policy/Policy Development
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: consultant