Public health recommendations have always been a hard sell. Resistance to new behaviors – like the mask-wearing and social distancing advised during the COVID-19 pandemic – is part of human nature.
Stroke is New Zealand’s third highest cause of death, but few people recognise its symptoms and risk factors, particularly in Pasifika and Māori communities where stroke affects more people.
From 2021, it will be harder to import e-cigarettes. That protects young people, in particular, who are increasingly being lured into nicotine and tobacco addiction.
Australia has won a decisive victory against tobacco interests using trade deals to challenge plain packaging laws. But don’t expect that to deter similar threats against other nations.
From 2021, Australians will no longer be able to buy nicotine-containing e-fluids, without both a prescription and someone licensed to import it for them, raising fears many will go back to smoking.
With the advent of novel tobacco products and the tobacco industry falsely marketing them as less harmful, the adage “prevention is better than cure” has never been more important.
According to the estimates by the World Health Organisation, Africa is one of two regions – along with the Eastern Mediterranean region – where smoking rates are on the rise.
A study from France concluded smoking might protect against coronavirus. But particularly now, in the midst of a pandemic, it’s critical we don’t take headlines at face value.
Early data suggests being a smoker might put you at higher risk if you catch coronavirus, so there’s never been a better time to quit. The good news is the benefits are almost immediate.
Lockdown should be nuanced to the South African context of overcrowded accommodation and high levels of domestic violence. Permitting cigarette purchases and exercise might assist.