In the Bangladesh Tobacco Control Law 2013, it has been clearly written that the warnings have to be printed in the body of the cover, box, and cartons of smokeless tobacco products. In order to restrict the usage of smokeless tobacco, standardized packaging needs to be ensured. A recent review of studies by public health experts convened by WHO in April 2020 found that smokers were more likely to develop severe disease with Covid-19 compared to non-smokers. Henceforth, I strongly agree with the researchers who have raised their voice for the governments and public health bodies to regulate the production and sale of smokeless tobacco in the world, including Bangladesh. The government has to ensure public health during the pandemic by amending the law to restrict the usage of smokeless tobacco products through a standardized packaging system and also ensure awareness of mass people in the rural areas.

Source: Dhaka Tribune December 03, 2020 20:37 UTC