In a recent report from the World Health Organisation (WHO), comprehensive updates on global tobacco control measures, including the MPOWER strategies, were highlighted. In this article, we break down the findings of the report, and discuss India’s achievements in combating tobacco usage.
Understanding MPOWER Measures
In 2008, WHO introduced MPOWER, a package of six effective methods to combat the issue of tobacco usage and its associated health repercussions. These strategies are: Monitoring tobacco use and prevention policies; Protecting people from tobacco smoke; Offering help to quit smoking; Warning about the dangers of tobacco; Enforcing bans on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship; and Raising taxes on tobacco.
Key Findings in the Global Tobacco Control Report
Over the past decade, tobacco smoking prevalence globally has seen a decline from 22.8% in 2007 to 17% in 2021. As a result, there are 300 million fewer smokers today. The MPOWER measures have played a significant role in this reduction.
The number of countries incorporating at least one MPOWER measure has increased from 44 in 2008 to 151 in 2022. Furthermore, four nations – Brazil, Turkiye, the Netherlands, and Mauritius – have successfully implemented all MPOWER measures.
Addressing Existing Challenges
While the progress is notable, the report emphasizes several challenges that need to be addressed. Some 44 countries do not employ any MPOWER measure, and in 53 countries, there is no complete ban on smoking in healthcare facilities. The report also noted the growing influence of e-cigarettes and their implications on public health.
Second-Hand Smoking: A Silent Killer
Out of approximately 8.7 million tobacco-related deaths annually, 1.3 million are non-smokers who have been exposed to second-hand smoke. This exposure is linked to nearly 400,000 deaths due to heart disease each year. Second-hand smoke also has negative effects on children’s health, contributing to severe asthma, respiratory tract infections, sudden infant death syndrome, and more.
India’s Progress in Tobacco Control
India excels in certain aspects of tobacco control initiatives. For instance, around 85% of cigarette packs in India carry health warnings on both sides. The country has furthermore banned the sale of e-cigarettes and implemented smoking bans in healthcare facilities and educational institutions. A visible decline in public smoking can be observed in cities like Bengaluru, primarily driven by enforcement drives and awareness campaigns.
Tobacco Consumption in India: A Current Overview
Close to 267 million adults in India (29% of all adults) consume tobacco products, with smokeless tobacco being the most prevalent form. Annually, tobacco use accounts for approximately 1.35 million deaths, establishing India as the second-largest consumer and producer of tobacco worldwide.
Government Initiatives Against Tobacco Use
The Indian government has undertaken various initiatives to aid in tobacco control. Such measures include the National Tobacco Control Programme, the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Ordinance, 2019, and the National Tobacco Quitline Services (NTQLS). Moreover, in the 2023-24 Budget, the Union Finance Minister announced a 16% increase in the National Calamity Contingent Duty (NCCD) on cigarettes. New regulations requiring Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms to display tobacco-related health warnings during streamed content have been recently introduced by the Union Health Ministry.