Mozambique Reports High Incidence of Tobacco-Related Deaths and Economic Losses
In Mozambique, tobacco consumption leads to 9,300 annual deaths, primarily among older adults. The direct and indirect economic losses from tobacco amount to 11.7 billion meticais, or 1.3 percent of GDP. The WHO urges for comprehensive legislation to enhance tobacco control, which could save lives and boost the economy.
In Mozambique, tobacco consumption results in approximately 9,300 deaths annually due to related diseases, as reported by Aleny Couto, the Deputy Director of Public Health. This alarming statistic accounts for 3.5 percent of all recorded fatalities in the nation. A recent report reveals that a significant majority of the victims, 73 percent, are individuals over the age of 70, while 14 percent of these deaths involve passive smokers.
The economic impact of tobacco use is profound, with losses reaching 11.7 billion meticais (equivalent to 176.9 million dollars) each year. Such losses constitute 1.3 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Couto emphasizes the potential for recovery, stating that implementing effective tobacco control measures could save 53,300 lives and reduce health costs by 45 billion meticais by 2037.
The report underscores that health-related expenses total 900 million meticais, coupled with indirect economic losses of 10.8 billion meticais due to premature deaths and absenteeism related to smoking. Severin Xylandea from the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that tobacco is a leading preventable cause of death and illness, urging Mozambique to intensify its tobacco control efforts.
To combat tobacco-related issues, the WHO advocates for the urgent approval of a comprehensive Tobacco Control Law. This legislation should include increased taxes on tobacco products and a reduction in accessibility, particularly to youth. Additionally, the proposed measures entail a complete ban on tobacco advertising and promotion, the adoption of standardized packaging, and improved health warnings on tobacco products.
Implementing strict tobacco control legislation not only addresses health concerns but also stimulates economic benefits. Global experience demonstrates that such measures lead to enhanced national productivity and alleviate the burden on healthcare systems. Xylandea concludes by affirming that prioritizing tobacco control will not only save lives but also enhance Mozambique’s path toward sustainable development.
In summary, Mozambique faces a significant public health and economic challenge due to tobacco-related diseases, which result in thousands of deaths and considerable financial losses annually. Addressing this issue through effective tobacco control measures is crucial for saving lives and improving the nation’s economic stability. Immediate action, including the approval of a comprehensive Tobacco Control Law, will yield long-term benefits for public health and economic productivity.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
