Provincial Health Minister Punjab, Dr. Javed Akram has said that the hazards of novel products are much worse than perceived by the young generation especially women and many diseases stem from the use of novel tobacco products. He said that one of the alarming problems on the rise in heart disease in young women. Dr. Javed Akram also said that a lot of research is already available and as he is from the medical field, he sees a lot of patients coming in with ailments connected to the use of novel tobacco products. He expressed these views by addressing an Interactive Dialogue of Young Women with Policy Makers on Combating Tobacco Novel Products that took place at the University of Home Economics Lahore organized by the Sustainable Social Development Organization SSDO on 7th March in Lahore.

The event drew an esteemed panel of stakeholders including Punjab Health Minister Professor Javed Akram as the chief guest. A resolution to ban Novel Tobacco Products was presented by the students from the University of Home Economics, Kinnaird College, and Lahore College for Women University and passed by over 400 students from different women’s universities of Lahore and also endorsed by Health Minister Professor Dr. Javed Akram. The resolution was presented by SSDO and was an oath to shun the use of novel tobacco products.

Prof. Dr. Kanwal Ameen, Vice Chancellor, of the University of Home Economics reminded the students that it was prudent to be more careful and not go with harmful products that may seem fun or cool because their peers are doing the same. She stressed that the power to be strong against novel tobacco products lies within and the conviction should be strong.

Syed Kausar Abbas Executive Director, SSDO reiterated that 8th March marks International Women’s Day and it was imperative for women to be mindful of their health among other things. He further added that the presentation of novel tobacco products is often very attractive and seemingly harmless but its impact should never be undermined.

Other panelists included Malik Imran Ahmed, Country Representative CTFK, Ms. Shiza Qureshi Advocate High Court, Dr. Rana Imtiaz Deputy Program Manager NCD, and Dr. Irum Rubab Director of the Student Affairs University of Home Economics. Ms. Shiza Qureshi said that such products are double trouble for the female body and more harmful than the use of regular cigarettes. Dr. Rana Imtiaz stressed the need for investment in oneself and reminded the young female students to bring about a change from within.

To commemorate the day further a poster competition was also arranged and the posters reflected various creative outputs of the students from many universities in Lahore on the subject. The students also performed a small skit and an interactive question-answer session also took place towards the end. During the session, students raised their concerns and asked many pertinent questions.

Pakistan Observer