• Economic costs of tobacco use are substantial
• In Zambia an estimated 16% of people in the general population consume some form of tobacco products.
• Government remains committed to the attainment of Health for all Zambians.

Ministry of Health says tobacco use contributes to poverty by diverting household spending from basic needs such as food and shelter to tobacco products.

Speaking during the commemoration of World No Tobacco Day, Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Technical Services Dr. Kennedy Malama said spending on tobacco is difficult to curb due to its addictive nature.

Dr. Malama however added that economic costs of tobacco use are substantial which include significant healthcare cost for treating diseases and other conditions.

According to Dr. Malama, “In Zambia an estimated 16% of people in the general population consume some form of tobacco products,” and 12% use smoked tobacco products that include manufactured cigarettes among others.

Meanwhile, Dr. Malama stated that government remains committed to the attainment of Health for all Zambians, and that improving the health sector will be achieved by having a strong and resilient health care system.

He was speaking during the 40 year commemoration of the 2021 Pharmacy Week.

“Government is convinced that improving the health status of Zambians will only be achieved by having a strong and resilient healthcare system,” said. Dr. Malama.