A charity has highlighted tobacco’s harmful effects on young people.
Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre shared this information as part of World No Tobacco Day.
Established by the World Health Organisation in 1987, World No Tobacco Day is observed every May 31 and spreads awareness about the dangers of tobacco and what can be done to protect present and future generations from the substance.
A BCHC spokeswoman said: “This year’s WHO theme, ‘Protecting children from tobacco industry interference’, underscores the urgent need to safeguard our youth from harmful tobacco products and deceptive marketing practices.”
According to the WHO, about 38 million people aged 13 to 15 use tobacco products including e-cigarettes.
Young people are more than three times more likely to start vaping when exposed to smoking imagery on screen, and the substance counts for more than 2.5 million deaths worldwide from cancer.
The spokeswoman added: “The tobacco industry strategically targets young people, enticing them with flavoured products and misleading advertising.
“By doing so, they create a cycle of addiction that can last a lifetime.
“Armed with knowledge about the harms of tobacco, smoking and vaping, we empower ourselves to make informed choices and advocate for healthier lifestyles.”
Visit cancer.bm to book a free Lung Smart presentation and access resources on tobacco prevention.
