Alarming: Over one million in Cameroon consume tobacco daily, 8,300 die yearly -Report.

The figures, which have been described as alarmingly high, were released recently. This was as Cameroon joined the rest of the world to observe World No Tobacco Day on May 31. This year’s commemoration was under the theme: “Grow food, not tobacco”.

Medics say the alarming figures reminds all and sundry of the dangers of smoking tobacco and other related drugs. 

According to the NIS study results, the over one million adults who smoke tobacco represent 8.9% of the population; 13.9% for male and 4.2% female.

The results of the study also indicate that over 10% of the youth population aged 13-15 consume tobacco products. The frightening figures, keen observers are unanimous, is a clear indication Cameroonian youth are increasingly playing with fire and their health. 

The NIS report indicates that out of those who consume tobacco daily in the country, over 8,000 die annually of diseases caused by smoking. 

To fight against the addictive consumption of tobacco, member states of the World Health Organisation, WHO, introduced a framework convention on tobacco control on February 3, 2006.

The convention was ratified by 182 countries. Cameroon became a party to the WHO Framework Convention on May 4, 2006. 

Through the framework convention, member countries have the obligation to monitor the consumption of tobacco, help those who want to quit smoking, sensitise others on the dangers of smoking and ensure the respect of the law prohibiting the advertising, promotion or sponsorship of tobacco products. 

Legal provisions on smoking

Smoking is prohibited in schools, universities and Ministerial buildings. There is a ban on tobacco advertising and promotion on television, radio and newspapers. Though tobacco sponsorship is allowed, there are some restrictions on the publicity of such sponsorship.

The law requires rotating pictorial health warnings on 70 percent of the front and back surfaces of tobacco product packaging. Misleading packaging and labeling, which could include terms like “light” and “low tar” and other signs, are prohibited. 

Three circulars restrict smoking in certain public places and workplaces like educational establishments and government buildings. 

Law No. 2006/018 governs tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship. Joint Order No. 0001/2018 governs tobacco product packaging and labeling, replacing the joint Ministries of Public Health and trade Order No. 967 of June 2007.