event details - MPOWER – Preparing the Next Generation of Tobacco Control Advocates: PROTECTING

In 2008, WHO introduced the MPOWER package to assist in the country-level implementation of six effective measures to reduce demand for tobacco products. The MPOWER package consists of a set of six key and most effective strategies for fighting the global tobacco epidemic: M is for Monitoring tobacco use, P is for Protection from tobacco smoke, O is Offering help to quit tobacco use, W is Warning about the dangers of tobacco, E is Enforcing bans on tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship, and finally R is for Raising taxes on tobacco. 

Each measure reflects at least one provision of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. This is the second in the series of webinars on MPOWER strategies by SDPI and aims to educate the youth and the next generation of tobacco control advocates.

The letter P in MPOWER denotes the "Protecting people from Tobacco Smoke" measure. As argued by the WHO there is no safe level of exposure to second-hand smoke which kills over 1 million people. Secondhand smoke is responsible for death, a plethora of cancers and heart disease, risk of premature birth, low birth weight, and doubles the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Evidence from multiple studies shows that indoor tobacco smoke pollution levels are much higher and more persistent as compared to open spaces. 

In line with Article 8 and the guidelines of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, Pakistan became a role model for smoke-free cities. A ban on all indoor workplaces and many cities, parks, transport, restaurants, and other public spaces has been in effect since 2002 (Protection of the Non-smokers’ Health Ordinance). However, despite diligent work by the tobacco control advocates in Pakistan violations continue to undermine the legislation, necessitating stringent enforcement measures. 

Foregoing in view, this webinar will focus on "Protecting people from Tobacco Smoke", and will deliberate on the following aspects:

1- What is the evidence related to the impact of secondhand/thirdhand smoke?

2- What are the provisions and global best practices related to “protection” measures?

3- How has Pakistan taken the lead in smoke-free cities; a practice that has been replicated across the world?

4- How has the evolving electronic/nicotine products landscape changed the secondhand smoke environment?