Ways To Create Awareness On World No Tobacco Day

By Tara Hari

World No Tobacco Day was created in 1987 by the World Health Organization (WHO) to draw attention to the harmful side effects of tobacco consumption. Every year on May 31st, World No Tobacco Day is celebrated by people around the world by abstaining from tobacco consumption for 24 hours. Health problems caused by tobacco causes 5.4 million deaths every year. The aim of World No Tobacco Day is to create awareness about such health issues and death resulting from tobacco consumption.

Ways To Create Awareness On World No Tobacco Day

The theme is this year's World No Tobacco Day is advertising. Tobacco companies promotes the use of tobacco by using themes and messages that appeal to the youth. The focus this year is on tobacco marketing, advertising and promoting. 9 out of 10 individuals start smoking by 18 and their preferred brands are usually one of the top three most advertised. To counter this threat to the youth, here are some ways to spread awareness on World No Tobacco Day.

Public Education Media Campaigns
These can be used to create awareness among the youth by educating them about the dangers of using tobacco. Young individuals will be encouraged to make a healthy choice.

One-Day Campaigns
Campaigns with various activities and exhibitions can be organized to promote awareness about tobacco. This can be undertaken with the help of government authorities, private organisations or even through community efforts.

Distribution of Leaflets
Brochures and leaflets can be distributed to the public at large in malls and other crowded areas to educate the community about the numerous consequences of smoking and various diseases associated with it.

Employee Awareness
Companies can hold awareness exhibitions and seminars on the hazards of smoking and even conduct different tests for smokers. Company policies regarding smoking can be made more stringent by banning employees from smoking in public areas.

Community Efforts
In every locality, people can come together to ensure that the use of every tobacco product is completely stopped for 24 hours. Leaflets about the hazards of tobacco can also be distributed when people try to purchase it.

Children's Workshop
Workshops can be held for students of all ages. They should be encouraged to utilize their artistic talents to create posters depicting the harmful effects of second-hand smoke and the hazards of tobacco.

Skits and Plays
Schools, colleges and private organisations can put up various creative skits and plays depicting the dangers of smoking. This will lead to increase in awareness about the diseases faced by smokers and their families.

Today is the day to spread the message that Tobacco Kills. Make sure you spread awareness on World No Tobacco Day. You could be saving numerous lives with your contribution, however big or small.

Read more about: smoking urban life