Solomon Islands: Tobacco Control Regulations in Final Phase

Source from:  Solomon Star Newspaper (sb)  09/04/2013

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) yesterday confirmed that progress is being made on finalising the Tobacco Control Regulations.

MHMS received a large number of submissions concerning the regulations during the public consultation period.  The vast majority of submissions received indicated strong support for effective controls on tobacco.

"The Ministry is committed to ensuring that the input received from the public is reflected in the Regulations," said Dr Cedric Alependava, Chair of the Tobacco Control Taskforce Committee.

"The feedback received raised a number of complex issues that we are currently working through to ensure that the Regulations are effective."

Dr Alependava confirmed that the regulations would not include any surprises.

"The draft Regulations released during the public consultation included all of the ministry's proposals. In line with feedback, we are modifying some requirements and removing others that were deemed unworkable. "We are confident that when the regulations are implemented the public will be happy to see better controls on tobacco."

The draft regulations will be passed and implemented in the coming months.

Tobacco use remains one of the leading health concerns in Solomon Islands. Recent surveys have indicated that tobacco consumption remains high, with smoking rates in youth and women actually increasing.

"This is of great concern," said Dr Geoffrey Kenilorea, director of non-communicable diseases.

"Smoking not only kills, it causes serious health effects such as miscarriage and stroke and can lead to amputations. It affects not just smokers, but anyone around who breathes in poisonous smoke fumes. Ultimately, the burden on the health system and the economy, from the high costs of medical treatment and loss of productive workforce is huge."

MHMS is pleased that members of the public are looking forward to the enforcement of the regulations.

"We would like to encourage everyone to play their part in creating no-smoking environments in the meantime," said Dr Alependava.

"The success of enforcement cannot be on dependent on law enforcers alone. From policy makers to every member of the community - we can all make a difference in ensuring our homes, workplaces, public transport vehicles and other environments are free of tobacco smoke, in order to safeguard the health of our people."

MHMS urges anyone who wants to give up smoking to call the quit line on 25203/28199, or seek support through their churches, families and other community organisations. Enditem