Dr. Martin Kusi, the Western Regional Director of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), has encouraged smokers to stop the practice particularly in public places.
He indicated that the growing health risks and conditions linked to tobacco usage by some individuals in the public space had become a matter of great concern requiring stringent enforcement of regulations to control the situation.
Dr. Kusi told the Ghana News Agency that the FDA had launched a new campaign to protect public health.
He said the initiative sought to educate the public on the serious consequences of both active and passive smoking, while enforcing regulations to minimize exposure to secondhand smoking.
He highlighted the dangers associated with tobacco usage including life-threatening conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and various cancers.
Dr. Kusi illustrated how smoking impacted negatively on the organs and systems in the smoker’s body.
“The FDA’s primary focus is on protecting non-smokers as secondhand smoking can be even be more harmful, as individuals who do not smoke are involuntarily exposed to harmful toxins.”
This exposure placed on non-smokers at greater risk for respiratory diseases, heart complications, and other serious health conditions.
Dr. Kusi stated that all bars, restaurants, and public establishments were now required to place prominence on “No Smoking signs”, particularly in spaces where food was served.
He added that establishments must also create designated smoking areas to ensure the safety of patrons, employees, and the general public.
With the festive season approaching, Dr. Kusi urged compliance with the regulations, encouraging collective action.
He noted that as the “Christmas season nears, the FDA is stepping up its education and enforcement efforts, calling on everyone to refrain from smoking in public places to protect the health of others, especially non-smokers who are often the unintended victims of tobacco smoke.”
Dr. Kusi said there was a Legislative Instrument, which empowered the FDA to enforce smoking regulations more rigorously.
He issued a strong warning to businesses and the public, stating that the passage of the LI meant one couldn’t smoke anyhow.
The FDA’s renewed campaign delivered a strong message about the importance of protecting non-smokers from secondhand smoke, through education, regulation, and enforcement.
Dr. Kusi, on the other hand, urged consumers to be wary of expired products ahead of the yuletide.
GNA