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Amman, Jordan: A delegation from the King Hussein Cancer Foundation (KHCF) and King Hussein Cancer Center (KHCC) has participated in the 'World Conference on Tobacco and Health' (WCTOH), which took place between 17 and 21 March, 2015, in Abu Dhabi. Headed by Her Royal Highness Princess Dina Mired, Director General of KHCF, the delegation comprised a group of KHCF and KHCC representatives including Dr. Feras Hawari, Director of KHCC's Cancer Control Office. The WCTOH was held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, the United Arab Emirates Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development.
The WCTOH aims to shed light onto several topics pertaining to tobacco, including derivatives such as smoking and argeeleh. This year's Conference highlighted the upcoming period as a transition phase towards joining efforts in terms of strategic planning on both the local and regional levels to take strict measures to tackle this issue in a serious and effective manner, particularly in developing countries in the Arab World where the issue of tobacco is especially pronounced. Over the course of the Conference, participants demonstrated the latest global advancements with regards to combating tobacco, and stressed the importance of enhancing regional and international collaboration.
As a leading figure in the global fight against cancer, Her Royal Highness Princess Dina Mired took part in several discussion sessions as a keynote speaker. The sessions featured a number of government officials, decision makers and youth who spoke about tobacco, its risks and its direct correlation with cancer, heart diseases, diabetes and respiratory illnesses.
Commenting on her participation in the Conference, Her Royal Highness Princess Dina stated, "Unfortunately, tobacco, smoking and argeeleh will result in the death of one billion people in the 21st century if we do not unite and take a stand."
Her Royal Highness Princess Dina added, "Having been ousted from the developed world, tobacco companies have intensified their efforts in developing countries. They use sophisticated tactics and marketing strategies to target our youth and make sure that our youth and children pick up their first cigarette, following through with them to ensure they become confirmed pack-a-day smokers. We need governments to protect our children, starting with the implementation of the law banning smoking in public places. We need to put an end to the tobacco industry from using our youth as pawns in this multi-billion dollar industry that profits at the expense of their health."
According to statistics, tobacco is responsible for at least 30% of total deaths resulting from cancer. Furthermore, tobacco is considered the cause of death for 87% of men and 70% of women who have died from lung cancer.
The WCTOH is organized every three years, drawing the participation of approximately 3,000 representatives from across the world.
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© Press Release 2015
