TOBACCO is a silent menace least understood by people as long as they are not struck down themselves by its deadly impact on health. The campaign against tobacco is on around the world. The United Nations and the world observe No Tobacco Day to make people aware about the ill effects of tobacco on our health and environment. Our country is also no exception and we too observe the day with due importance. We see, newspapers carrying regular reports on the far-reaching impact of tobacco on public health. What strikes us most is the fact that smoking tobacco in our country is particularly rampant among living below the poverty line, that is, people who cannot afford any kind of medical attention.
I feel sad when I see the poor rickshaw-pullers wasting their hard-earned money on this harmful habit. I also feel bad when I see the school-going children smoking and harming their health and future. Media campaigns should be strengthened and schools should include in its curriculum chapters highlighting the ill effects of tobacco.
Hannan
Bonosree, Dhaka