Nicosia, Cyprus. Health Minister Neophytos Charalambides warned on Monday that new tobacco and nicotine products are targeting young people through social media, flavourings and attractive packaging. He said smoking remains a major public health challenge despite progress in recent years.
World No Tobacco Day
Speaking ahead of World No Tobacco Day on Sunday, Charalambides said this year’s message highlights a particularly worrying reality, referring to the World Health Organisation campaign theme, “Unmasking the Appeal – Countering Nicotine and Tobacco Addiction.”
Marketing tactics
He said tobacco companies are increasingly promoting products as fashionable or less harmful in order to attract a new generation of nicotine users. According to the minister, flavourings, colourful packaging and online promotion reduce the perception of risk among children and adolescents and undermine international anti-smoking efforts.
Government measures
Charalambides said the ministry remains committed to strengthening prevention policies, raising awareness and enforcing anti-smoking legislation. He added that the government will continue campaigns aimed at creating a safer and healthier environment for the public.
Public responsibility
The minister said safeguarding public health is not only the state’s duty and called for cooperation among families, schools, health professionals and young people. He said young people should resist viewing smoking and nicotine addiction as desirable or socially acceptable.
Thanks to contributors
Charalambides also expressed gratitude to ministry officials, health professionals and organisations involved in anti-smoking initiatives for their contributions to public health awareness and prevention.