The importance of a healthy lifestyle should begin in childhood. This was highlighted during a press briefing on November 21, in recognition of the International Day of No Tobacco.
«Smoking poses a significant threat to public health. Approximately 130,000 deaths annually in Ukraine are attributed to tobacco use. According to Kyiv's statistics, 17% of residents aged 12 and older are regular smokers. About one-third of these individuals have been smoking for over ten years, and 45% consume up to ten cigarettes daily. Teenage smoking has also become a widespread issue in recent years», – noted Serhiy Chumak, the Chief State Sanitary Doctor of Kyiv.
To tackle this issue, a pilot project for schools aimed at reducing nicotine and tobacco use has been launched in the city. Additionally, platforms such as «How to Quit Smoking» and «Stop Smoking» are operational. Educational institutions are also actively conducting anti-smoking activities.
«Fostering a responsible attitude towards personal health and the health of those around us is a primary goal for educational institutions. Continuous educational and awareness efforts are being made. Lessons address the harmful effects of tobacco. Lectures, discussions, and training sessions with medical professionals, representatives from NGOs, and law enforcement are held. Efforts are focused not only on children but also on adults. Parents are informed about the importance of creating a safe environment for children, free from tobacco and alcohol influences», – explained Oleksandr Serhiev, the Chief Specialist of the Extracurricular Education Department.
He also expressed gratitude to all those who assist educators in combating tobacco use in schools.
«Currently, there is a complete ban on smoking and hookah use in public catering establishments in the capital. The State Food and Consumer Service is overseeing compliance with anti-smoking legislation. This year, 68 supervisory activities have been conducted, with violations found in 50 establishments, amounting to 78%. Fines totaling over 4.5 million UAH have been imposed. We will continue this work», – reported Oleg Ruban, the Head of the State Food and Consumer Service in Kyiv.
It is also worth noting that the project for a Tobacco Control Strategy for 2025-2030 has been approved in the capital. The main goal of the Strategy is to reduce smoking rates among adults and children by 30% by 2030 and to create a «smoke-free» environment, especially in public spaces.