A recent study revealed that the number of the smokers in the Kingdom will jump to 10 million by the year 2020 and spending on tobacco products will reach a staggering SR21 billion annually. Citing the study's findings that the increase is due to a lack of awareness programs, the Saudi Diabetes & Endocrine Association (SDEA) urged the ministries of Health and Education to hold regular tobacco awareness campaigns to enlighten the general public about the negative effects of smoking. On the occasion of World No Tobacco Day, the SDEA called upon the Ministry of Health to ban smoking in all hospitals and medical centers in order to protect patients from the hazards of active and passive smoking. It also stressed the importance of making all recreational facilities, sports clubs, beaches, malls, hotels, restaurants and public parks and spaces smoking-free areas. The SDEA said banning smoking in public places will protect society from the dangers of second-hand smoking while at the same time promote positive, healthy lifestyles and a cleaner and safe environment. The association urged the ministries of Higher Education and Education to turn all professional institutions, universities and schools into smoking-free areas. SDEA Chairman Abdulaziz Al-Turki called upon all committees and societies functioning under the association to do as much as possible in the fight against tobacco.
