On 31 May 2023, the world united to observe "World No Tobacco Day", an annual event designated by the World Health Organization (WHO). This global initiative aims to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco and encourages governments, communities and individuals worldwide to actively participate in activities that promote tobacco control. While the global theme for this year centred around "Grow Food Not Tobacco," Thailand took a unique approach with their slogan, "E-cigarettes are toxic, addictive, dangerous", tailored to address current challenges and emphasize the overall risks associated with e-cigarettes, particularly for new smokers.
In line with this annual event, WHO recognizes exceptional individuals and organizations across its six regions for outstanding contributions to tobacco control. Thailand proudly celebrated the recognition of two outstanding recipients acknowledged by WHO for their vital contributions to combatting tobacco use: the National Statistical Office (NSO), Thailand and Police Colonel (Pol.Col.) Prateep Charoengul, Deputy Secretary General of the Office of the Consumer Protection Board.
The National Statistical Office, Thailand - Advancing Tobacco Control Efforts in Southeast Asia
The NSO received the World No Tobacco Day 2023 Award for the WHO South-East Asia Region. As a state entity and principal agency, the NSO is dedicated to conducting national surveys to gather timely economic, social, and environmental data in Thailand. Over the past three decades, the NSO has been playing a pivotal role in supporting tobacco control agencies, encompassing public, non-profit, and private organizations. Through regular surveys and the development of a comprehensive database, the NSO monitors various aspects of tobacco consumption in Thailand, providing crucial insights to the Ministry of Public Health and other relevant sectors. This data serves as a foundation for policy planning, intervention measures, and the enactment of laws that protect the health of non-smokers and foster a robust tobacco cessation service system.
Leading with Data: Dr. Piyanuch Wuttisorn, Director General of National Statistical Office of Thailand, received the award on behalf of the NSO, © OTPC MoPH Thailand, 2023.
Pol. Col. Prateep Charoengul - Spearheading the Fight Against E-Cigarettes
Pol. Col. Prateep Charoengul, Deputy Secretary General of the Office of the Consumer Protection Board in Thailand, received the Regional Director Special Recognition Award 2023 for the South-East Asia Region. In 2016, he assumed leadership of an ad hoc working group focused on controlling electronic cigarettes. Despite facing several challenges such as limited human and financial resources, Pol. Col. Prateep and his team forged ahead with determination to ensure the project's success. Their tireless efforts yielded impressive results over the years, with a number of successful operations leading to the prosecution of offenders and the confiscation of numerous electronic cigarettes. Looking ahead to 2023, the Office of the Consumer Protection Board will sustain their initiatives, including proactive public relations through online channels, establishing a youth network in educational institutions, and intensifying electronic cigarette control in schools, temples and among online sellers.
Commitment to Public Safety: Pol. Col. Prateep Charoengul, Deputy Secretary General of the Office of the Consumer Protection Board, Thailand, © OTPC MoPH, 2023.
The achievements of the NSO and Pol. Col. Prateep Charoengul exemplifies Thailand's unwavering commitment to tobacco control. Their dedication, perseverance, and innovative approaches serve as beacons of inspiration, not only within Thailand and Southeast Asia but across the globe. As we commemorate World No Tobacco Day 2023, let us celebrate the extraordinary contributions of the winners and renew our collective determination to create a healthier, tobacco-free world for the generations to come.