British Virgin Islands to Host Smoke-Free Day, Highlight Tobacco Dangers

Key Points:

1.The British Virgin Islands have intensified anti-smoking campaigns, emphasizing the dangers of all tobacco products.

2.The new smoking regulations protect minors and restrict smoking in public places.

3.World No Tobacco Day theme reveals tobacco industry marketing tactics, raises public awareness.

4.The Department of Health is committed to optimizing the health environment and promoting healthy living among the population.

According to World Health Organization, the British Virgin Islands will be holding a smoke-free day event on May 31 to remind residents of the dangers of all forms of tobacco use. Renee Leonard, a public health official from the Department of Health and Social Development, emphasized that whether it's e-cigarettes, cigarettes, hookah, or flavored cigars, all of these are harmful tobacco products. She pointed out that these products, despite their appealing flavors, are highly addictive and deceptive, and are associated with various serious diseases.

Leonard further calls on the community not to be misled by the marketing tactics of these products. She believes that community awareness must be strengthened through education in order to uncover the lies of the tobacco industry and protect the future. She urges smokers to quit and strongly advises non-smokers not to pick up the habit, as smoking significantly impacts lifespan and quality of life, ultimately leading to potentially fatal consequences.

This year, the 2006 Tobacco Control Law has been updated to include more protection measures for minors.

The amendments include:

·Smoking is prohibited in vehicles with minors, with violators facing a personal fine of $500; 

·Smoking is also prohibited within 50 feet of the entrances, exits, and windows of public buildings. 

·Additionally, hotel rooms throughout the country are now smoke-free. 

·Warning labels must be printed in rectangular form, covering at least 60% of the main display panel, not obscured by outer packaging or any other means, and should not be placed on removable outer packaging. 

·Businesses selling or attempting to sell tobacco products to minors will face a $500 fine;

· An updated bill will now include e-cigarettes as tobacco products. 

World No Tobacco Day on May 31 this year will focus on "Exposing the Attractiveness of Tobacco": Uncovering Industry Strategies for Tobacco and Nicotine Products.

The Department of Health and Social Development will continue to focus on effectively managing all environmental factors that may have negative impacts on population health, in order to ensure that all residents of the Virgin Islands are able to achieve and maintain optimal health and quality of life.