T HE Member States of the World Health Organization created World No Tobacco Day in 1987 to draw global attention to the tobacco epidemic and the preventable death and disease it causes. In 1987, the World Health Assembly passed Resolution WHA40.38, calling for 7 April 1988 to be a “World No-Smoking Day.” In 1988, Resolution WHA42.19 was passed, calling for the celebration of World No Tobacco Day every year on 31 May.
Tobacco use remains one of the leading causes of preventable diseases and deaths worldwide. According to the WHO, tobacco kills more than 8 million people each year, including over 1.2 million non-smokers who are exposed to second-hand smoke. As such, everyone needs to be aware of the dangers caused by tobacco and various forms of tobacco products.
Nicotine and other chemicals contained in cigarettes can harm not only the smoker but also those nearby. Therefore, smokers may suffer from life-threatening diseases such as lung cancer and heart disease due to tobacco smoke, and it is necessary to quit smoking in order to prevent such conditions.
Tobacco and smoking-related products contain more than 7,000 harmful chemicals, most of which are carcinogenic. Tobacco use and smoking increase the risk of chronic bronchitis, emphysema, lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, and cancers of the mouth, throat, oesophagus, and bladder. On average, smokers lose about 10 years of life expectancy compared to non-smokers.
Passive smoke is just as dangerous as direct smoking. It increases the risk of lung cancer and heart disease in non-smokers and is particularly harmful to children and pregnant women. In children, it can cause respiratory infections and asthma, while in pregnant women, it may increase the risk of premature birth.
The theme for World No Tobacco Day 2026 is “Unmasking the appeal – countering nicotine and tobacco addiction.” This global campaign, led by the World Health Organization (WHO), is designed to counter the deceptive tactics used by the tobacco and nicotine industries. The Myanmar government and local authorities manage the tobacco-free environments in public areas across the nation with public participation by raising awareness of the dangers of tobacco and tobacco products.
Therefore, people of all ages should avoid the use of cigarettes, tobacco, and e-cigarettes, as these not only harm their own health but also affect the health of those around them and other living beings. They should strive to live a healthy life throughout their lifespan. Only then can a tobacco-free environment be created, and a healthy and strong future generation be nurtured.