Smoking

        On Wednesday May 21, 2003, more than 190 countries approved an international treaty against smoking.  This pact would require countries to set tight restrictions, or ban altogether, the promotion, sponsorship and advertising of tobacco.  At the World Health Organization's annual meeting, 192 countries unanimously adopted the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control that commits them to combat the devastating effects of smoking and exposure to smoking.  This will be the first international treaty against smoking intended at kicking an addiction that kills nearly 5 million people a year.  Health activists, including the American Cancer Society, commended the treaty saying this could be the turning point in the fight against tobacco.

    The following websites contain more information on the historic agreement and on tobacco use:

Anti-Smoking Treaty Is Adopted by 192 Countries  U.S. Backs Pact Curbing Tobacco Use Worldwide 
Tobacco Cessation Guideline Tobacco Free Initiative
American Cancer Society: Tobacco and Cancer American Lung Association
Tobacco Information and Prevention Source Anatomy of a Cigarette
Foundation for a Smokefree America Action on Smoking and Health
Airspace Action on Smoking and Health Americans for Nonsmokers' Rights
Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids Is Nicotine Addictive?

    The following pamphlets are available in the library for checkout:

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Last Updated July 1, 2003
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