The state with some of the worst tobacco use statistics in the country was honoured with a World Health Organisation (WHO) award for its tobacco control efforts.
Each year, the WHO recognises exceptional individuals and organisations from each of the six WHO regions for their significant contributions to the fight against the dangers of tobacco use. This year the prestigious WHO Director-South-East General’s Asia Region Award was bestowed upon Meghalaya’s State Tobacco Control Cell.
The anti-tobacco campaign has reached remarkable milestones, a press release stated today, including the active participation of approximately 4.9 lakh students across 7,975 schools in the state, with a reach of more than 3,500 villages. A total of 7,388 rallies have been held, mobilising communities and generating considerable momentum in the fight against tobacco.
“The impressive signature campaign conducted over the past several months is further evidence of the campaign’s success, representing the widespread support and commitment to a tobacco-free society,” the release stated, while quoting words of praise from the Chief Minister, Health and Family Welfare Minister and senior civil servants.
The State Tobacco Control Cell, in collaboration with the Education Department and the police, implemented a comprehensive tobacco control programme to create awareness, inspire action and foster community engagement in the fight against tobacco.
The government is understandably revelling in winning the award but the real question is whether it will truly help Meghalaya kick its tobacco addiction.
Statistics are appalling – there are around 8,000 tobacco-related deaths in Meghalaya annually through cancer, stroke and other diseases. Data for the state shows that 34 percent of 13-15 years old and 47 percent of those aged 15 and above consume tobacco. Cases of oesophageal cancer in Meghalaya are 10 times the national average, with a prevalence rate that is the highest in the country and amongst the highest in the world.
