SA cannot end TB while tobacco and nicotine addiction go unchecked
South Africa must pass the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill to curb nicotine addiction and reduce TB risks.Summary
Professor Lekan Ayo-Yusuf argues that South Africa cannot effectively end tuberculosis while tobacco and nicotine addiction remain unchecked. He highlights that smoking increases TB risk, worsens treatment outcomes, and weakens immune responses, a concern exacerbated by the rise of vaping products. Despite the public health crisis, the country has seen an explosion of unregulated nicotine products. Ayo-Yusuf emphasizes that the proposed Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill, which regulates rather than bans these products, is essential. He counters industry arguments about illicit trade and job losses, noting that smoking-related diseases already cost the nation billions and that similar regulations exist in other countries. Ultimately, he calls for decisive action to protect future generations from addiction and disease.
(Source：spotlightnsp.co.za)
