lead in risks associated with disability and premature death globally, and, as a result, there’s a need “sustained political commitment.”
Ried believes the simple answer to stopping this issue from worsening is to “do everything possible to keep people, especially young people, from starting to smoke. We know what works thanks to studies conducted by many organizations around the world.”
However, he admits that culture, tobacco regulations and control policies can be counterproductive.
“Most people know that smoking is bad for you,” Ried said. “China and India are the two most populous countries in the world, so even small percentages of smokers mean a lot of people smoking. One of the biggest areas to look at is the prevalence of smoking in young people. That gives us a clue as to whether the epidemic is declining or will continue to rise.”
The research added that better tobacco control is achievable but requires comprehensive, effective and adequately implemented policies, which could, in turn, demand global political commitment efforts that surpass achievements made in the past 25 years.
Author: Cesar Gamboa
Cesar Gamboa is a staff reporter and editor for Addiction Now covering topics ranging from legislation to scientific studies. He was previously a general assignment reporter for the Orange County Register. SoCal raised, lover of books, and avid mountain biker (when he wants to be). He can be reached at cesarg@addictionnow.com.
