While cigarette smoking in the United States has declined overall, it is increasing at an alarming rate overseas. According to the World Health Organization, tobacco accounted for over 4 million deaths worldwide in 1998. By the year 2020, WHO estimates that tobacco will account for over 8 million deaths worldwide. In China, two-thirds of men became cigarette smokers before the age of 25. In Russia, 65% of males aged 18-24 and 73% of males aged 25-34 smoke cigarettes, respectively.
The tobacco industry has a history of using its influence to curb tobacco prevention, control, and advocacy efforts overseas. Researchers Yach & Bettcher recently investigated the globalization of tobacco industry influence, stating it represents a major threat to public health worldwide. A recent report by the World Health Organization criticized the tobacco industry for using its influence to curb anti-smoking efforts worldwide.
Prevention efforts and strict tobacco control policies are being developed in some countries overseas, including implementing prevention initiatives targeting youth, increasing cigarette taxes, imposing cigarette advertising bans, and writing laws to protect non-smokers and children.
Learning Objectives: 1. Explain the history of tobacco industry influence overseas. 2. List worldwide statistics related to cigarette smoking. 3. Describe worldwide tobacco prevention, control, and advocacy efforts. 4. Describe strategies by the tobacco industry to undermine tobacco prevention, control, and advocacy efforts overseas.
Keywords: Advocacy, Tobacco
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.