It is common knowledge now, not only for health professionals and students like us, but to large majority of the population about the terrible effects tobacco can have on human health. Yet, in 1990 (in European Union countries), tobacco killed 511700 people alone. In the USA , smoking kills more people every year than alcohol, cocaine, heroin, murder, suicide, car accidents and AIDS combined (Center for Disease Control).
As future health professionals we should help stop this epidemic at its very source: through prevention of smoking among children from 10 to 12 years.
Providing children with accurate information about long and short-term risks and effects of smoking before they start. |
|
Destroy myths and stereotypes of "being cool" and "looking independent" that young children often associate with smoking.
Help young children develop skills to assist them in refusing to use tobacco - say "NO" to tobacco without loosing friendship.
We are in good position for achieving this as children will not look at us as "boring adults". If you can prevent one single person from smoking, it will have been worth it.
Remember: It is in your hands!
You may see what did NAPSer
do for 31st May 2005, and how did this day go in Belgrade. read more |
napser.org