Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the world, killing over 8 million people each year.
Smoking harms nearly every organ in the body and causes a wide range of diseases, including cancer, heart disease, stroke, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Smoking is also a major risk factor for secondhand smoke exposure, which causes cancer and other health problems in nonsmokers.
The tobacco industry is one of the most harmful industries in the world, and it targets children and adolescents with its addictive products.
The good news is that tobacco use is declining globally, and many countries are implementing effective tobacco control policies.
A smoke-free future is possible, but it will require continued efforts to reduce tobacco use and protect people from secondhand smoke.
Governments can implement comprehensive tobacco control policies, including high tobacco taxes, bans on smoking in public places.
Individuals can quit smoking and support others in quitting.
Healthcare providers can screen patients for tobacco use and provide cessation counseling and treatment.
The public can demand action from governments and the tobacco industry to create a smoke-free future.