President Mohammed Shahabuddin -File photo

DHAKA, May 30, 2026 (BSS) – President Mohammed Shahabuddin today called for creating mass awareness and ensuring strict enforcement of relevant laws to prevent tobacco addiction.

The President made the call in a message marking the ‘World No-Tobacco Day’.

“Tobacco cultivation, processing and the use of tobacco products are extremely harmful to public health, the environment and the economy. Tobacco use significantly increases the risk of various life-threatening diseases, including cancer, heart disease, stroke and diabetes,” he said.

The President said nearly 200,000 people die every year in Bangladesh from tobacco-related diseases, which put a heavy burden on families and impede national development.

“Many young people are becoming addicted to smoking due to the attractive promotional campaigns of tobacco companies,” he added.

Describing this year's theme on the ‘World No-Tobacco Day’, “Unmask the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products”, as highly relevant and significant, he said it aptly reflects the need to protect people, particularly the youth, from the lure of tobacco and nicotine products.   

The President expressed the hope that the proper implementation and strict enforcement of the Smoking and Tobacco Products Usage (Control) (Amendment) Act, 2026 would play an important role in protecting women, children and the younger generation from the harmful effects of tobacco.

He called upon the administration, civil society, relevant organisations and the mass-media to work in a coordinated manner to raise awareness against tobacco use.

The President wished every success to all programmes undertaken to mark the ‘World No-Tobacco Day 2026’.