Fiji is taking significant steps to address the serious issue of illicit tobacco trade by collaborating with an international team to assess its needs for effective implementation of the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products. This was highlighted during a recent meeting led by Dr. Jemesa Tudravu, Permanent Secretary for Health, who stressed the importance of identifying existing gaps to strengthen the protocol’s execution.
The Protocol, which is the first adopted under the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, aims to eliminate the illicit tobacco trade through international cooperation. The insights gained from this assessment will be crucial in developing a national action plan that aligns local policies with global best practices to combat illegal tobacco activities.
Dr. Tudravu pointed out the urgency of the situation, noting that tobacco use contributes to more than 1,200 premature deaths each year in Fiji. The financial repercussions are also severe, with tobacco-related issues costing the country approximately $319 million annually, which accounts for around 2.7% of Fiji’s GDP. This statistic underscores that nearly 17% of deaths in Fiji are connected to tobacco usage, highlighting a significant public health crisis.
Additionally, he mentioned that 27% of tobacco-related deaths are attributable to second-hand smoke exposure, which exacerbates the public health concern as both adults and youth continue to engage in high rates of tobacco use. This necessitates comprehensive tobacco control measures more than ever.
These current efforts are in line with previous findings that have similarly emphasized the grave economic and health ramifications of tobacco use in Fiji. Research suggests that implementing strict tobacco control policies, such as increasing taxes on tobacco products and adhering to WHO regulations, could greatly mitigate this public health crisis.
The commitment from health officials and support from the international community bring a sense of optimism as Fiji moves forward with enhanced tobacco control measures. Collectively, these initiatives offer a chance to cultivate a healthier and more productive populace, potentially leading to improved health outcomes and greater economic stability for the nation.
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