Every year on May 31, World No Tobacco Day is observed. Established by the World Health Organization (WHO), the day aims to raise awareness of the risks associated with smoking and to promote effective tobacco-control policies. One of the key international instruments in this field remains the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC), the first global public health treaty, which has been widely ratified by countries around the world, according to the news website Infoabad.
In Turkmenistan, tobacco control is an integral part of the state health policy. The country ratified the WHO convention in 2011 and has consistently implemented national programs aimed at reducing tobacco consumption, preventing harmful habits, and promoting healthy lifestyles. Restrictions on tobacco advertising and smoking in public places have been introduced, alongside comprehensive interagency measures.
According to Turkmenistan’s national programs, this work is being carried out in stages with the participation of government agencies, healthcare institutions, and international partners, including the WHO. At the same time, initiatives promoting sports and physical activity are being expanded, including mass sporting events and public awareness campaigns.
WHO representatives and national experts emphasize that tobacco smoke contains thousands of chemical substances, many of which are highly toxic and carcinogenic. This underscores the importance of prevention and smoking cessation as key factors in protecting public health.