The smoking of tobacco is a serious global health
issue which contributes to the death of millions annually. One of the
most effective strategies to reduce the health hazards of tobacco smoking
is to establish a global network to promote and enact legislative measures
banning the manufacture and sale of tobacco products.
It is for this purpose that I, in collaboration with Dr. Zatonski,
initiated an international partnership named ToFWA, the acronym for
Tobacco Free World Alliance, on November 11, 2004.
This international coalition aims to raise public awareness of the
serious health hazards of tobacco smoking, and prohibit the use of tobacco
products worldwide through legislative measures. Membership in ToFWA
is open to any responsible person who shares these goals and is willing
to submit a petition to the legislative body in his or her country for
the complete ban of the manufacture and sale of tobacco products within
the next 10-20 years.
As a medical professional concerned with public health worldwide, I
warmly invite and encourage you to participate in this international
initiative as an active member. Your participation and support is valuable
in helping us achieve our goal of promoting public health on a global
level by the elimination of cigarette smoking. I firmly believe this
goal is a worthy and good one, and one which is attainable.
Thank you.
