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FILE PHOTO: A man vapes at a coffeeshop.
World No Tobacco Day is observed globally on May 31st, with experts highlighting the health risks associated with smoking. The South African Medical Research Council says over 76% of university students have been exposed to e-cigarette advertisements, including promotions like free samples and discounts.
The tobacco and nicotine industries target people of all ages with products and designs tailored to different groups – while deliberately preying on youth.
The manipulation stops here. Unmask the appeal and expose the truth. #WorldNoTobaccoDay 🚭 #TobaccoExposed pic.twitter.com/Ln22pRRwtn
— World Health Organization (WHO) Western Pacific (@WHOWPRO) May 31, 2025
There are also concerns about the alleged targeting of children in tobacco advertising. Some young people are speaking out against vaping and urging the government to take action.
“I think vaping is very bad, especially for teenagers, because now not only are they smoking at home, they are also taking the addiction to school. And I feel like it is pressuring young kids because they see older people. Anything that has to do with smoke is bad for your health. But when it comes to vaping, the Department of Health should run campaigns to warn people about the dangers of vaping.”
WATCH: World No Tobacco Day | Discussion with Professor Lekan Ayo-Yusuf
