Tobacco use in Pakistan is a silent epidemic claiming more than 170,000 lives annually and imposing an economic burden of 615 billion PKR, equivalent to 1.6% of the country’s GDP. This pervasive issue affects public health and the national economy in profound ways.

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The Economic Toll of Tobacco:

Tobacco-Related Deaths and Economic Burden

Tobacco is the largest silent killer in Pakistan, with over 170,000 people succumbing to its deadly consequences each year. Beyond the staggering loss of life, the economic costs are equally sobering. The annual economic burden of Tobacco use amounts to 615 billion PKR, significantly affecting the country’s financial health. This economic toll encompasses healthcare expenses, reduced productivity, and other associated costs, highlighting the need for urgent action.

Losses to the National Exchequer:

The tobacco industry, who claims to be a significant contributor to government revenue, infact causes substantial losses to the national exchequer. These losses stem from the high healthcare expenditures required to treat tobacco-related illnesses, far exceeding the revenue generated by the sale of Tobacco Products. Increasing Tobacco Taxes can help bridge this financial gap and provide additional resources for essential public services.

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Personal Financial Strain:

In addition to the national economic burden, tobacco use places a considerable financial strain on individual smokers. On average, Pakistani smokers allocate approximately 10% of their monthly income to fund their smoking habits. This heavy financial burden can be particularly challenging for low-income individuals, often forcing them to make difficult choices between their habit and basic necessities. Higher taxes on tobacco products can act as a deterrent, making it more challenging for people to afford cigarettes and encouraging them to quit.

Protecting the Youth:

Alarming Statistics

One of the most distressing aspects of tobacco use in Pakistan is its impact on young individuals. Shockingly, an estimated 1,200 Pakistani children between the ages of 6 and 15 initiate smoking every day. The availability of cigarettes and their proximity to educational institutions raise significant concerns. By increasing tobacco taxes, cigarettes can become less accessible to young people, potentially saving them from a lifetime of tobacco addiction.

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“The Perils of Modern Tobacco Products”

Exploiting Social Media:

Modern tobacco products pose a significant threat to public health, with manufacturers strategically exploiting social media platforms to target unsuspecting youth. They utilize enticing marketing schemes and colorful branding to lure young users into the harmful clutches of tobacco addiction. The rapid rise of e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches, fueled by social media marketing, is a grave concern.

The Youth as Primary Targets:

Over 1,200 children in Pakistan start smoking every day, a harrowing statistic that underlines the urgency of the situation. Modern tobacco products have infiltrated open markets and established a presence near schools and universities. These products are all too accessible to impressionable students, making it easy for them to fall prey to addiction. The need for stringent measures to counteract this trend is clear.

Dismantling the Myths:

Safer Alternative or False Hope?

One of the key challenges in combating the tobacco epidemic in Pakistan is dismantling the myth that modern tobacco products are safer alternatives to traditional cigarettes. Tobacco control activists in Pakistan, have already highlighted the detrimental health effects of e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches. The potential harm to users cannot be underestimated, and it is essential to educate the public about these risks.

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Conclusion:

Increasing tobacco taxes in Pakistan is not merely a financial decision; it is a crucial step towards saving lives and protecting the well-being of the youth. Efforts to address the tobacco epidemic are underway, exemplified by Chromatic’s recent Influencers Conference, which highlights the hazards of modern tobacco products and their marketing tactics. By raising taxes on tobacco products, Pakistan can reduce tobacco use, improve public health, and bolster the economy while safeguarding its youth from the dangers of addiction. It’s time for Pakistan to take decisive action and make a meaningful impact on the health and prosperity of its citizens.

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This article has been contributed by Tayyab Raza.

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