Tedros Urges Tougher Tobacco Controls as Global Death Toll Remains High

The treaty, ratified by 183 parties covering 90% of the world’s population, has contributed to a one-third reduction in global tobacco use, preventing an estimated 118 million people from smoking.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, has called for stronger action against tobacco, marking 20 years since the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) came into force.

The treaty, ratified by 183 parties covering 90% of the world’s population, has contributed to a one-third reduction in global tobacco use, preventing an estimated 118 million people from smoking.

Key measures such as pictorial health warnings, plain packaging, and bans on tobacco advertising have provided protections for over 5.6 billion people worldwide.

Despite these efforts, tobacco remains the leading cause of preventable death, killing 8.7 million people annually and costing the global economy 1.8% of its GDP.

The industry also exacerbates environmental harm, with 4.5 trillion cigarette butts polluting the planet each year, while tobacco farming depletes vital agricultural resources.

Tedros, alongside Dr. Adriana Blanco Marquizo, is urging countries to fully implement FCTC provisions, including stricter bans on tobacco sponsorship and industry interference.

“All countries can do more, including by banning tobacco sponsorship and advertising, and by protecting public health policies from tobacco industry interference,” Tedros stated.

He emphasized that stronger enforcement is crucial to safeguarding lives, economies, and the environment.