Day: 31st May
Purpose: To raise awareness about the health risk of tobacco on individuals’ health
Significance:
World No Tobacco Day is celebrated worldwide on 31st May. This day is celebrated to raise awareness among people about the health risk of tobacco. Tobacco consumption has caused death of 6 million deaths across the globe. Among these numbers 600,000 people are those who get affected by passive smoking, i.e. by inhaling smoke from a smoker. All the member states of WHO started observing World No Tobacco Day since 1987. This day has gained support by Government, health organizations, smokers, growers and at the same time there has been resistance from certain groups as well. But the momentum to reduce the consumption was never slowed and there has been steady speed in the individuals’ and organizations join World No Tobacco Day (WNTD)
WHO makes the day more interesting by selecting a theme and giving a global message. World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) is celebrated by avoiding tobacco for complete 24 hours; tobacco is not consumed in any form.
WHO themes are developed to neutralize the marketing strategies proposed by the tobacco producers. WNTD publishes the recent tobacco-related research and statistics. WHO develops the marketing material such as brochures, fliers, posters, websites, videos, podcasts and press releases.
WHO websites promotes the organization and the individuals to keep the website updated with the events and the achievements on their website which helps in increasing no tobacco awareness. The information can be seen on the website by country selection.
WHO has encourages organization and the individuals who contribute significantly towards a tobacco free society. These people work for reducing tobacco consumption. World No Tobacco Day Awards are given in the region Africa, Americas, Eastern Mediterranean, Europe, South-East Asia, and Western Pacific. Director-General Special Awards and Recognition Certificates are also given to people around the globe irrespective of territories.
