WHO Calls on Governments to Protect Youth from Tobacco and Nicotine
The World Health Organization (WHO) will mark World No Tobacco Day on May 31. This year, WHO is asking every government to take stronger action. The goal is to stop young people from becoming addicted to tobacco and nicotine products.
At least 40 million children between the ages of 13 and 15 used tobacco products last year. The numbers for e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches grew even faster. These newer products are popular among teenagers around the world.
Nicotine is a powerful drug. It is especially dangerous for young people because their brains are still developing. Once a young person becomes addicted, it is very hard to stop.
Advertisement
Tobacco companies know this. They will design products with sweet flavors to attract children and teenagers. They will also use social media to advertise to young audiences. The WHO said this is deliberate targeting of youth.
About 160 countries do not have any specific laws about nicotine pouches. This gap in regulation gives companies room to sell freely. WHO wants governments to close this gap quickly.
There are several steps governments can take. They can ban flavored e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches. They can stop advertising near schools. They can also make public spaces like parks smoke-free and vape-free.
Rio de Janeiro in Brazil showed what is possible. The city organized hundreds of inspections of shops. It stopped many illegal e-cigarette sales and removed advertising.
The WHO says every country has the power to protect its young people. Quick action will save lives and keep a new generation free from addiction.
Take a position. Out loud, if you can.
Four ways to start. Pick one and try saying it before you scroll on.
Tip · Record yourself, use in a notebook, or practice with a language partner.
Why is nicotine especially dangerous for young people?
Future with 'will' for Predictions and Intentions
We use 'will + base verb' to talk about what we think will happen in the future, or what someone plans to do. It can show a warning about someone's likely behavior.
“They will design products with sweet flavors to attract children and teenagers.”
What to know · A2
Try saying this aloud
Scenario: You are discussing health news with a classmate or colleague.
- 01“Did you see the WHO report about young people and tobacco?”
- 02“I think banning flavored e-cigarettes is a good first step.”
- 03“The numbers are really shocking — 40 million children!”
- 04“I hope more countries will follow Rio de Janeiro's example.”
- 05“What do you think governments should do?”
Register tip · informal
🎙️ Article Audio — Kokoro TTS
WHO Calls on Governments to Protect Youth from Tobacco and Nicotine
Adapted from WHO News · Read the original. LinguaPress rewrites the facts as original graded-reader text for language learners.
Advertisement