Cristina Martínez Martínez
Deputy Head of the Tobacco Control Unit at the Catalan Institute of Oncology and lecturer in the Department of Nursing, Public Health, Mental Health and Maternal and Child Health at the University of Barcelona
The approval of the Anti-Smoking Plan by the Ministry of Health is a significant step forward in the fight against one of the biggest causes of preventable death in Spain: smoking. The updating of this plan, which had remained unchanged for 14 years, demonstrates the Government's commitment to tackling this major public health problem.
The measures proposed in the plan are comprehensive and ambitious, ranging from preventing smoking to encouraging cessation and reducing environmental exposure to smoke. It is encouraging to see that concrete legislative actions are being considered, such as banning additives (flavourings and flavourings) in tobacco, increasing taxes on products and banning single-use devices.
Particularly notable is the focus on the protection of public and collective spaces, especially those frequented by minors, reflecting a concern for the health of future generations. The expansion of smoke-free environments for tobacco and related products is a positive measure that can help to reduce exposure to environmental tobacco smoke and to denormalise smoking in our society.
In addition, promoting research and working with local authorities to tackle the problem from different angles are important strategies to combat smoking in a comprehensive way.
In summary, the Anti-Smoking Plan is an important step in the fight against smoking in Spain and demonstrates a firm commitment on the part of the Government to protect the health of the population. It is essential that these measures are effectively implemented and that work on smoking prevention and control continues in order to achieve a healthier society.