Artvin selected as Turkiye's initial smoke-free city under experimental initiative
In a significant move towards improving public health, Turkey's northern province of Artvin has been designated as a pilot region for a new "smoke-free city" project. This initiative is part of a broader effort to curb tobacco use and protect the health of its citizens.
The Turkish government, building on its existing anti-smoking framework, aims to implement city-wide measures that can later be replicated elsewhere in the country. This ambitious project was welcomed by Professor Dr. Mustafa Aydın, president of the Turkish Anti-Smoking Association.
Professor Aydın highlighted the urgent need for such measures, stating that tobacco consumption costs Turkey approximately $20 billion annually and accounts for nearly one-tenth of total healthcare spending. Furthermore, nearly 100,000 people die annually due to tobacco-related illnesses.
Under the "smoke-free city" project, expanded support will be offered to residents of Artvin seeking to quit. This includes free medication and a strengthened quit-smoking hotline. E-cigarettes and disposable vapes will also be strictly regulated.
Smoking will be entirely banned in public institutions across Artvin. A nationwide campaign under the theme "smoke-free Turkey" has already been launched this year, with the hope of raising awareness and encouraging citizens to adopt healthier lifestyle choices.
Professor Aydın emphasized that smoking is not just an individual choice but a societal crisis, contributing to heart disease, cancer, and chronic illnesses. He expressed optimism, stating that a smoke-free Turkey is achievable if local authorities, civil society, and citizens work together.
According to a 2023 study, 34.8 percent of Turkey's population aged 15 and over use tobacco products. Aydın suggested that Artvin's role as the first "smoke-free city" could serve as an example for other provinces in Turkey.
The first "smoke-free city" project by the Turkish government was realized in the province of Çanakkale. The government aims to protect public health by implementing city-wide measures to reduce tobacco use.
As the "smoke-free city" initiative in Artvin gains momentum, it is expected to set a precedent for future anti-smoking initiatives across Turkey. The hope is that this project will contribute to a healthier and more prosperous future for the nation.
