About 4,700 deaths, or 12% of the total registered annually in Moldova, are associated with consumption of tobacco products and exposure to tobacco smoke. Six in ten of those deaths are considered premature, i.e. occurring in working-age population.
The Ministry of Health has warned in a press release that tobacco consumption is associated with cardiovascular diseases, cancers (lung cancer in particular), cerebrovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, and atherosclerosis, among others. Globally, tobacco is responsible for 8 million deaths each year.
May 31 has been designated World No Tobacco Day. This year, the focus is on “tobacco and lung health”, to increase awareness on the impact of tobacco consumption and exposure to cigarette smoke on people’s lung health and general well-being.
In 2017 the Ministry of Health adopted the National Program on Tobacco Control and other secondary legislation, including tobacco labelling warning requirements, and in 2018 cigarette retail prices were increased.
An important role in combating smoking is played by counseling and treatment for tobacco dependence. In 2018, the National Narcology Dispensary offered counseling services to 468 persons willing to quit, and 305 patients received medication-assisted treatment for tobacco dependence. A further 325 people benefitted from psychological counseling and cognitive behavioral therapy.
During May 28-31, awareness and counseling events will take place across the public health care system and in public schools.
People willing to quit smoking are encouraged to call the toll-free helpline 080010001. The public is also asked to call 080012300, also toll-free, to report any alleged violations of the smoking ban in public places.
