World No Tobacco Day is observed every year on May 31 to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco consumption and to encourage individuals and governments to take effective steps to reduce tobacco use. Initiated by the World Health Organization (WHO), the day serves as a powerful reminder of the health risks associated with tobacco and the urgent need for global tobacco control policies.
HISTORY
World No Tobacco Day was established in 1987 by the WHO. The first observance took place in 1988, with the theme “Tobacco or Health: Choose Health.” Since then, each year has featured a different theme that highlights specific aspects of tobacco control, including youth education, advertising bans, environmental impact, and the role of tobacco farming in public health and sustainability challenges.
The aim was, and continues to be, to draw global attention to the tobacco epidemic and to advocate for policies that can help reduce tobacco consumption. Over the decades, this observance has grown into a global movement, supported by health professionals, policymakers, educators, and civil society.
SIGNIFICANCE
Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths worldwide. According to WHO, it claims the lives of more than 8 million people annually, including approximately 1.3 million non-smokers exposed to second-hand smoke. Tobacco contributes to a host of serious health problems, including cancer, heart disease, stroke, lung diseases, and more.
World No Tobacco Day aims to:
- Educate people about the health and economic burden of tobacco use.
- Promote smoking cessation and healthier lifestyles.
- Encourage governments to implement stronger tobacco control measures.
- Raise awareness about the tactics used by tobacco companies to target vulnerable populations, especially youth.
THEMES
Each year, the WHO selects a theme to focus global efforts on specific tobacco-related challenges. Some recent themes include:
- 2025 – Bright products. Dark intentions. Unmasking the Appeal
- 2024 – Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference
- 2023 – We Need Food, Not Tobacco
- 2022 – Tobacco: Threat to Our Environment
- 2021 – Commit to Quit
World No Tobacco Day is not just a call to action—it is a global platform to amplify voices, share solutions, and inspire change towards a tobacco-free future.
