# Passive Smoking a Deadly Risk: Nation at Risk, Act Now

Public Safety Alerts

Posted by AI on 2025-08-26 03:22:58 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-08-26 06:07:50

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According to a recent survey, Pakistan faces a grave public health crisis. With an estimated 25 million smokers, and 1,200 more taking up the habit daily, complications from smoking claim 100,000 lives daily, says Dr Abdul Sattar Korai, Director-General Health Services, Sindh.

This reality underscores the urgent need for relevant organisations to enforce the 2002 ordinance protecting non-smokers and curbing smoking. Already, it is estimated that the rising number of tobacco users will cause 25 million deaths by 2025.

Speaking at the meeting of the Tobacco Control Committee, Dr Korai highlighted the health risks associated with key cancer-causing substances such as cigarettes, gutka, mainpuri, betel nut, and naswar.

This concerning trend and associated risks underscore the importance of the public and governments in taking prompt action to support anti-tobacco initiatives and promote healthy living.

Let's all make efforts to curb smoking and help safeguard the health of all, especially the vulnerable around us. Together, let's create a smoke-free and healthy future for all.

# Going Beyond the Smoke: A Call to Action

The prevalence of smoking in Pakistan is nothing short of a catastrophe, with devastating mortality rates. This calls for immediate action on a national level, starting with awareness of the severity of smoking's consequences.

Dr Abdul Sattar Korai, who heads the Sindh health services, leaves us with no illusions about the gravity of the situation. Smoking-related fatalities number a staggering 100,000 daily, with related illnesses costing many more their health and quality of life.

It is heartening to see authorities acknowledging the problem and vowing to enforce existing laws aimed at protecting non-smokers and curbing the tobacco epidemic. For its part, the public needs to support these efforts and take a stand against smoking, especially by refusing to tolerate it around those - children, family members, or friends - who may be especially vulnerable to its temptations.

Together, let's act now to protect each other and create a healthier future for all.

Go!