The World Health Organization has called for “global action” to protect women and girls against the sickness and suffering caused by tobacco use. The health organization’s call to action comes ahead of the international launch of World No Tobacco Day on May 31. WHO Director General Margaret Chan said tobacco use is “neither liberating nor glamorous,” but is instead “addictive and deadly.”

The outcry over a video of an Indonesian toddler smoking has thrown the spotlight on a nation struggling to modernise attitudes to the lethal dangers of tobacco.It has also highlighted the dilemma facing international entertainers who are invited to perform at big-money events sponsored by tobacco companies.Performers like Kelly Clarkson and Alicia Keys responded to anti-smoking campaigns and only continued with their shows after tobacco sponsorship was pulled.Indonesia is the world’s third-largest tobacco consumer. In a nation of 235 million people, 63 per cent of men light up and about one-third of the population smokes.

To millions of people, smoking cigarettes has become an addiction. It has even reached the point where some smokers can’t stand a day without puffing a pack or two. This addiction is fed by tobacco companies that continue to manufacture sticks of cigarettes despite health warnings from governments. Although there have been efforts at discouraging the uninitiated from smoking, those who are already deep in the habit find it difficult to stop. But there are success stories of smokers quitting for good, and whatever the reason for quitting, former smokers have felt the benefits.

Back in 1949, more than half of all adult males smoked, and about a third of all adult females. It’s hard to believe. Of course back then the dangers of smoking — while recognized in certain enlightened circles — were widely ignored. Consider that in 1946, R.J. Reynolds unveiled its “More Doctors Smoke Camels” ad. If our doctors were unconcerned about their smoking, why should anyone else worry?