Tobacco use

This refers to the news report ‘Speakers say no net increase in tobacco taxes as health cost increases to Rs615b’ (June 8). Many healthcare experts have advised the government to increase the health tax on tobacco products to put an end to smoking. Controlling tobacco use is essential if the government is serious about preventing major noncommunicable diseases, including cancer, in the country.

Revenue from the proposed health tax should be set aside for covering the treatment cost of these major diseases. In Pakistan, cigarettes are sold at cheaper prices, making it easier for a large number of people to buy it. The government should seriously consider implementing health taxes on tobacco products and ensuring that the revenue generated through these taxes is spent on the health sector.

Mariam Khan

Lahore