Cyprus is pushing for stricter regulations on nicotine products to protect youth from addiction, aligning with WHO guidelines. The country aims to regulate e-cigarettes and hookahs like traditional tobacco, prioritizing public health over industry profits.
What measures has Cyprus urged to protect youth from nicotine addiction?
Cyprus is advocating for stricter regulations on nicotine delivery systems, aligning with WHO recommendations. These measures aim to regulate and tax e-cigarettes and hookahs similarly to traditional tobacco products, prioritizing public health and youth well-being over tobacco industry interests.
Rising Concerns Over Youth Nicotine Use
The increasing prevalence of nicotine use among the youth of Cyprus has prompted calls for action. Christos Mina, the president of the Cyprus National Addictions Authority, emphasized the urgency of this matter. On World No-Tobacco Day, a spotlight was cast on the worrying statistics: a significant number of Cypriot students are engaging in e-cigarette and hookah use, with figures surpassing the European average. The data paints a concerning portrait of nicotine consumption habits among young Cypriots, with 4.6 percent reporting daily use of e-cigarettes.
The situation appears to be escalating, as the authority’s most recent survey points to a rise in electronic cigarette trial among smokers—from 21 percent in 2019 to 57 percent. The revelation of these numbers has set off alarms, underscoring the need for a robust response to curb this growing trend.
A Call for Regulatory Measures
In response to this pressing issue, the authority is advocating for a strong legislative stance. Mina has urged Cypriot legislators to align with the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) recommendations to safeguard young people from nicotine addiction. The proposed measures include the regulation and taxation of all nicotine delivery systems akin to traditional tobacco products. This move aims to prioritize public health, especially the well-being of children, over the interests of the tobacco industry.
The ongoing debate around nicotine addiction and its impact on youth is multifaceted and complex. However, the authority remains firm in its commitment to tackling this challenge. The consistent age of smoking initiation, holding steady at 18 years, further emphasizes the need for preventive strategies targeting adolescents.
Support for Quitting Smoking
Recognizing the difficulty of overcoming nicotine addiction, the Cyprus National Addictions Authority offers a dedicated support line for those seeking help. Available from Monday to Thursday, the hotline provides guidance and assistance, contributing to the fight against tobacco use. In 2023 alone, the program has supported 468 individuals, out of which 252 have successfully quit smoking.
The establishment of World No Tobacco Day by the WHO in 1987 serves as an annual reminder of the global efforts required to combat the tobacco epidemic. It is a day to not only raise awareness but also to celebrate the successes of anti-smoking initiatives and to reinforce the collective commitment to creating a smoke-free future for all, especially the younger generations.
What measures has Cyprus urged to protect youth from nicotine addiction?
Cyprus is advocating for stricter regulations on nicotine delivery systems, aligning with WHO recommendations. These measures aim to regulate and tax e-cigarettes and hookahs similarly to traditional tobacco products, prioritizing public health and youth well-being over tobacco industry interests.
What are the rising concerns over youth nicotine use in Cyprus?
The youth of Cyprus are increasingly engaging in nicotine use, with a significant number of students using e-cigarettes and hookahs. The statistics highlight a worrisome trend, with figures surpassing the European average. Notably, 4.6 percent of young Cypriots report daily e-cigarette use.
What is the call for regulatory measures in response to youth nicotine use?
In response to the escalating issue of youth nicotine consumption, the Cyprus National Addictions Authority is advocating for strong legislative action. The president of the Authority has urged legislators to align with WHO recommendations, proposing regulations and taxation on all nicotine delivery systems to protect young people.
How does Cyprus support individuals in quitting smoking?
The Cyprus National Addictions Authority offers a dedicated support line for individuals seeking assistance in quitting smoking. The hotline operates from Monday to Thursday, providing guidance and support to those struggling with nicotine addiction. In 2023, the program successfully helped 252 individuals quit smoking out of 468 who sought help.
