Jump to full article: Barbados Daily Nation (bb), 2008-10-06
Intro: ALONG WITH A DRIVE to reduce smoking in public places, action has been stepped up to encourage people not to use tobacco. We have reached this stage after a long haul and much debate. Studies have been made all around with the findings often reflecting the stance taken by whoever was paying for it.
We are now at the point where it is accepted and settled that tobacco has harmful effects. But not to be deterred, cigarette manufacturers have been endeavouring to open up bigger markets in countries where health services might not be as sophisticated as in developed countries. What can be expected is that tobacco interests will not give up without a fight.
At the same time, while it is accepted that tobacco poses health hazards, no strident calls have been made for a drop or ban in its cultivation. The use of suasion and the imposition of higher or heavy taxes on the use of tobacco have been preferred.
Meanwhile, some heavy financial backing has been coming for the fight against tobacco use. Among them is the Bloomberg Global Initiative to Reduce Tobacco Use, . . .
There is a strong argument that it is appropriate for the state to take a stand against smoking, since health resources will be deployed on behalf of citizens whose health is impaired from smoking.
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