Panama City, May 28 (Prensa Latina) Panamanian health authorities today highlighted the recognition received from the World Health Organization (WHO) in Geneva, Switzerland, for the fight against smoking.
According to an institutional statement, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom presented the award to Dr. Reina Roa at a forum that held sessions on the Tobacco Control Treaty.
They stressed that since 2008, in accordance with the law, measures to control tobacco consumption and its consumption in closed places with public access have been in force in Panama.
In this sense, the Channel Country was the first country in the world to impose an outright ban on the advertising, promotion and sponsorship of tobacco products.
“Over the past 20 years, the struggle has been complex as industry has not been long in coming, but we have made great efforts to implement the legislation,” said Roa, presenting the award.
The doctor also explained that the health of the population is more important, considering that tobacco is an addiction that causes death, disability and permanent illness.
The ceremony took place during the World Health Assembly in Geneva, where the Panamanian delegation was led by Deputy Minister of State Ivette Berrío.
According to Panamanian Minister of Health Luis Francisco Sucre, the country has shown leadership in public policies related to tobacco control and is steadily striving to eliminate its illicit trade and practice a healthy lifestyle.
Next November, Panama will host a forum that will define the new roadmap to fight global tobacco use.
npg/ga