Health minister pushes for ‘heavy taxes’ to protect youth from smoking

WEB DESK: Provincial Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique announced a proposal to request the Prime Minister to impose ‘heavy taxes’ on all forms of smoking, highlighting its detrimental impact on the youth.

Speaking at a ‘World No Tobacco Day’ seminar, Rafique said that smoking is a global menace, responsible for seven million deaths annually.

Rafique stressed the severe health risks associated with all forms of smoking, including sheesha, comparing two hours in a smoke-filled room to smoking four cigarettes. He urged the youth to prioritise education and positive activities.

Additionally, he addressed the ongoing polio crisis and the health department’s efforts to eliminate corruption within the province.

Provincial Health Minister Khawaja Imran Nazir reiterated the need to combat addiction and protect the youth from smoking, aligning with this year’s ‘World No Tobacco Day’ theme.

He announced plans for awareness campaigns across hospitals and criticised the societal and economic costs of smoking, which amounts to Rs347 billion.

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