“That’s why gina-push naton subong comprehensive ordinance to ensure nga safe ang aton mga pumoluyo from tobacco smoke in public as well as gina-include na naton subong ang pag-prohibit sang e-cigarette, ” Lapascua stressed during the media conference as part of the National Lung Month.
Aside from having a comprehensive local policy, DOH-6 added that all rural health centers must also be capable of providing cessation services to smokers who want to stop their unhealthy habit, noting that each health center must have at least two personnel trained on smoking cessation processes.
To date, twenty-two LGUs already have smoking cessation clinics in the region and these LGUs are recipients of DOH’s Red Orchid Award, an annual recognition of institutions that promote a smoke-free environment.
As part of its consistent campaign against smoking and vaping, DOH already released its new set of graphic warnings on tobacco products as mandated under Republic Act 10643 (The Graphic Health Warnings Law). The graphic warnings show illnesses associated with tobacco use – foot gangrene, deep tissue infections, mouth cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer and lung disease, premature birth, and tooth loss.
The DOH-6 also reminded cigarette and ‘vape’ users that quitting such habits is an important way to protect their lung health and avoid diseases, noting that non-pharmacologic interventions like lifestyle changes contribute in achieving overall health improvement. (AAL/JNH/PIA6 Iloilo)
