The consumption of tobacco and tobacco-related products among youths aged below 15 has increased around threefold from 2001 to 2016, according to a workshop on the control against tobacco and tobacco-related products with the use of strategic health relation.

Dr. Myint Htwe, Union Minister for Health and Sports said: “According to the 2014 surveys, more than 43 per cent of the male adults and more than eight per cent of female adults are tobacco smokers. More than 62 per cent of male and more than 24 per cent of female chew betel nut. As the county sees increased tobacco consumption among the youths, the ministry will carry out a national campaign to educate young students about the dangers of cigarettes, alcohol, drugs and health life, in cooperation with the Ministry of Education.”