Tunisia Faces Tobacco Crisis: Children Starting at Age 7, 20% of Deaths Linked to Smoking

Tunisia is struggling to cope with a severe tobacco crisis, with the average age of first cigarette use shockingly low at around 7 years old. This alarming statistic was highlighted by Dr. Olfa Saidi, the World Health Organization (WHO) representative in Tunisia, who also noted that 20% of deaths in the country are attributed to tobacco consumption.

The rise in tobacco use among young people and children is particularly concerning. The increasing popularity of electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco products is exacerbating the problem. A 2021 survey conducted by the Health Ministry revealed that 17% of young people aged 15-17 use electronic cigarettes, compared to 14% who use conventional tobacco.

Why this matters: The tobacco crisis in Tunisia has significant implications for public health and the well-being of its citizens, particularly children. If left unchecked, it could lead to a rise in smoking-related illnesses and deaths, placing a burden on the country's healthcare system and economy.

Dr. Saidi also raised concerns about the rising tobacco consumption among women and young girls, although specific gender-based statistics are lacking. Additionally, passive smoking is a significant issue, with 18% of cigarette-related deaths attributed to secondhand smoke.

To address this crisis, Dr. Saidi emphasized the need for collective efforts and stronger enforcement of existing laws. She pointed out gaps in the enforcement of Law 17/1998, which does not prohibit the sale of tobacco to minors or near educational institutions. The WHO is advocating for stronger measures to protect children from tobacco industry interference, aligning with the theme of World No Tobacco Day: 'Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference.'

In 2013, the Health Ministry proposed an initiative to amend the anti-smoking law, aiming to protect young people and children from passive smoking in the home environment. This initiative sought to involve the entire community in combating the tobacco epidemic.

The statistics paint a grim scenario: the average age of first cigarette use is 7 years old, 20% of deaths are linked to tobacco, 17% of young people aged 15-17 use electronic cigarettes, 14% use conventional tobacco, and 18% of cigarette-related deaths are attributed to passive smoking. These figures highlight the urgent need for comprehensive tobacco control measures in Tunisia.

Tunisia's tobacco crisis demands immediate attention and action. Strengthening legislation, enforcing existing laws, and raising public awareness are critical steps to protect the nation's youth and reduce the devastating impact of tobacco.

Key Takeaways

• Average age of first cigarette use in Tunisia is 7 years old.
• 20% of deaths in Tunisia are attributed to tobacco consumption.
• 17% of young people (15-17) use electronic cigarettes, 14% use conventional tobacco.
• 18% of cigarette-related deaths are due to secondhand smoke.
• Tunisia needs stronger tobacco control measures to protect its youth.