The Food and Drug Authority (FDA) has embarked on a comprehensive awareness campaign to educate senior high school students in the Eastern Region about the risks associated with Tobacco and substance abuse.

Spearheaded by the FDA's Eastern Regional office, this year's campaign aims to raise awareness about the detrimental effects of tobacco and other harmful substances on human health.

In commemoration of the 2023 World No Tobacco Day, over 350 students from Manya Krobo Senior High School (MAKROSEC) participated in an educational event titled “We Need Food, Not Tobacco.”

Addressing the students, Mr George Ampofo Ayeh, the Public Relations Officer for the Eastern Regional FDA, highlighted the health hazards associated with tobacco use and its products. He advised the students against engaging in tobacco consumption, emphasizing that it would hinder their future prospects.

Mr. Ayeh referred to the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), specifically section six, which mandates the FDA to protect the public health and safety of Ghanaians.

Mr Peter Alordji, Senior Regulatory Officer of the FDA in the Eastern Region, emphasized that tobacco products contain hazardous substances, many of which are known to be harmful and cancer-causing.

He stated, “There are approximately 600 ingredients in a cigarette, and when burned, it creates more than 7000 harmful chemicals that happen to cause cancer and other toxic.”

Mr Alordji also suggested that farmers who cultivate tobacco should consider switching to environmentally friendly crops, and businesses should redirect their production and supply chain from tobacco to food products to address widespread food insecurity.

He further highlighted the addictive nature of nicotine present in tobacco products, cautioning the public and students against their use. He warned that the use of these substances does not enhance learning but instead damages the neurological system, leading to mental health issues and drug addiction, which can isolate individuals from society.

Mr Alordji specifically advised students to avoid being enticed by the flavours in shisha and focus on the negative effects it can have on their well-being.

Expressing concern, Mr Joseph Tetteh Portuphy Akor, Assistant Headmaster of Administration at MAKROSEC, commended the school's proactive approach to addressing drug use.

He mentioned the school's robust counselling system, which educates students about the dangers of tobacco, Indian hemp, and other harmful substances, while also providing rehabilitation for those found guilty of substance abuse.