BANGKOK, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Thai Minister of Public Health Piyasakol Sakolsatayadorn on Friday warned all smokers that tobacco will burn lungs.
The warning was part of the global campaign to mark World No Tobacco Day, which falls on May 31.
Piyasakol also presented to individuals and organizations in recognition of their contributions to anti-smoking campaigns and tobacco control.
As chair of the event, The health minister said consistent anti-smoking efforts had helped reduce the number of smokers to about 10 million in Thailand.
Nonetheless, the proportion of young smokers is still alarming, he said.
The official vowed to continue proactive actions against smoking raising awareness on health hazard caused by smoking, particularly cardiovascular diseases.
“On June 5, the Ministry of Public Health and the Excise Department will meet to discuss measures to raise excise tax on cigarettes,” said Piyasakol, “we need to do our utmost to reduce the number of smokers, as recommended by the World Health Organization.
The Department of Disease Control Director General, Suwannachai Wattanayingcharoenchai also has pointed out that harm is caused by all kinds of tobacco products which affect the lungs of smokers and others nearby.
“About a hundred types of toxin from tobacco smoke immediately irritate and destroy functioning lungs,” said Suwannachai, “even after just a single inhalation, causing coughs, and breathing difficulties, as well as raising the possibility of infections and other health impairments.”
Piayasakol said smoking can cause serious illnesses such as cancer, emphysema, tuberculosis, and allergies. Smokers are urged to quit smoking to benefit their own health, and the health of others.
Across Thailand, anti-smoking groups and school held campaigns marking the World No Tobacco Day. High school students joined a march on the streets, sending out message to the public about the threats of smoking.
Meanwhile in the far south in Yala Province, over 1,200 students wearing white took part in a morning exercise as a symbolic anti-smoking campaign.
