UAE Yet to Create Complete Smoke-free Environment
Despite key strides in implementing tobacco control policies sans legislation, the UAE is yet to take effective measures to create a smoke-free public environment as per the World Health Organisation’s requirements.
The second Global Tobacco Epidemic 2009 report released by the world health body on Wednesday urged all countries to implement stricter checks and smoke-free laws citing the fact that more than 94 per cent of people worldwide remained unprotected from exposure to tobacco smoke.
“Urgent action is needed to protect people from death and illness caused by exposure to tobacco smoke. . . .
al for Non-communicable Diseases and Mental Health Dr Ala Alwan.
As per the report, the UAE is yet to implement policies that can reduce exposure to second-hand smoke in its public transport system, pubs and bars and all other indoor public places.
A federal law in this regard is currently pending cabinet approval.
“Even without a legislation we have managed to implement such policies in universities, government offices and hospitals,” Dr Wedad Al Maidoor, Head of the National Tobacco Control Committee, said, commenting on the report.
