DHAKA, October 18, 2019 (BSS) – Information Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud today underscored the need for banning the import of e-cigarette considering its adverse impacts on public health.
“Import of e-cigarette should be banned in our country. Social resistance should be built against importers of e-cigarette,” he told a roundtable on “Emerging tobacco products and Bangladesh: What to do in present context” at National Heart Foundation Hospital and Research Institute auditorium here.
He urged the concerned ministries to take steps in banning e-cigarette. “India has banned e-cigarette in their country. We can also do the same,” he added.
The minister said the use of e-cigarette should be controlled before it reaches to an alarming degree.
Chaired by Founder of National Heart Foundation of Bangladesh National Professor Brigadier (Retd) Abdul Malik, the function was addressed by Barrister Shameem Haider Patwary, MP, Foundation’s Vice-President Dr Mohammad Sirajul Islam, Secretary General Khandker Abdul Awal Rizvi and Dr Ahmad Khairul Abrar, among others.
Professor Sohel Reza Chowdhury moderated the function.
The minister said the smoking (above 18 years old) has declined to 35 percent because of the government’s measures and raising of social awareness. The smoking rate was around double a decade ago, he added.
He underscored the need for strengthening the anti-smoking campaign in the society through dramas, television programmes and other ways with the slogan ‘smoking causes death’.
Dr Hasan said the number of smokers is decreasing in the country due to the government’s sincere efforts and application of laws.
Highlighting different achievements in the health sector, the minister said the government has reached health services to the doorsteps of people.
“To build a developed nation, health services must be ensured for all the citizens. The government is working to this end,” he added.
Dr Hasan said the country is going ahead under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Bangladesh is now a place of safe living in the world, he added.