Workshop on Harmful Effects of Tobacco Use Held in Natore
NatoreCorrespondent
— A day-long workshop titled “Harmful Effects of Tobacco Products and Ways Forward in Bangladesh” was held in Natore on Wednesday, bringing together 25 local journalists to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use and strategies for overcoming its impact.
The event, organised by Bangladesh Blind Mission, took place at a local restaurant and was inaugurated by Farazi Ahmad Rafique Babon, President of the Natore Press Club.
The opening session was chaired by Khandakar Abedul Islam, Manager (Administration) of Bangladesh Blind Mission. A welcome address was delivered by organiser Nasir Tareq, and the keynote presentation was given by Subhashish Mohanto, National Consultant at Bangladesh Blind Mission.
Speakers at the event highlighted that tobacco products contain more than 4,000 harmful chemicals, including nicotine, arsenic, DDT, tar, formalin, and bitumen — 43 of which are known to contribute to cancer.
They emphasized that tobacco use in Bangladesh leads to the death of approximately 161,000 people every year, and not only users but also those exposed to secondhand smoke remain at significant health risk.
The session concluded with a strong call for effective enforcement of tobacco control laws and a coordinated national effort to curb the tobacco epidemic.
