RTSS Advocates for a Tobacco-Free Future on World No Tobacco Day 2024

The Radiologic Technology Student Society (RTSS) and the Radiologic Technology Department of Holy Angel University (HAU-BSRT) proudly joined the International Society of Radiographers and Radiological Technologists (ISRRT) and the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) in commemorating World No Tobacco Day 2024.

This annual global initiative aims to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use, expose the harmful practices of the tobacco industry, and empower individuals and communities to claim their right to health and healthy living. By participating, ARTS and HAU-BSRT reaffirm their commitment to fostering a healthier, tobacco-free future for current and future generations.

The History of World No Tobacco Day

World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) was established in 1987 by the Member States of the World Health Organization (WHO) to spotlight the tobacco epidemic and the preventable deaths it causes. The World Health Assembly first passed Resolution WHA40.38 in 1987, designating April 7, 1988, as a global no-smoking day. A year later, Resolution WHA42.19 was introduced, officially marking May 31 as the annual date for World No Tobacco Day.

The Theme for 2024

The theme of World No Tobacco Day 2024 emphasizes the urgent need to end the targeting of youth by the tobacco industry. This year’s campaign serves as a platform for young people, policymakers, and tobacco control advocates worldwide to collaborate and urge governments to implement policies that protect youth from the manipulative strategies of tobacco companies.

While significant progress has been made in reducing global smoking rates, there remains much to be done to protect vulnerable groups, particularly young people. According to 2022 data, over 37 million young individuals aged 13–15 years worldwide use tobacco. In the WHO European Region alone, 1.5% of boys and 10.1% of girls in this age group are tobacco users, totaling approximately 4 million adolescents.

As a community of professional and aspiring radiologic technologists, RTSS and HAU-BSRT are committed to educating others about the dangers of tobacco use. This year’s campaign serves as an opportunity for the university and its students to advocate for a tobacco-free environment.

Through participation in global health initiatives like WNTD, ARTS and HAU-BSRT aim to inspire healthier choices and contribute to the global fight against tobacco use. Their dedication underscores the role of radiologic technologists as health advocates, promoting both preventative healthcare and public awareness.

The efforts of ARTS, HAU-BSRT, ISRRT, and WHO serve as a reminder that while progress has been made, continued action is essential. The fight against tobacco use demands collective effort to safeguard future generations from its devastating impacts.

By standing together on World No Tobacco Day 2024, the ARTS and HAU-BSRT community lead by example, showing their dedication to a healthier, tobacco-free future.