Exposure to second-hand smoke in selected public places in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region
Countries of the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region have taken steps towards implementing smoke‐free policies in enclosed public places. Almost half the countries have nearly comprehensive smoke‐free legislation and many others have exercised restrictions through ministerial decrees or executive notifications. Effective implementation of comprehensive smoke‐free policy requires more than laws that prohibit smoking indoors. It also includes posting of “no smoking” signage, clear assignment of enforcement responsibility and periodic monitoring of public places to ensure compliance.
Tobacco industry activities in Pakistan: 1992–2002
Transnational tobacco companies have had a presence in Pakistan for over 50 years. British American Tobacco (BAT) established Pakistan Tobacco Co. (PTC) in 1947, making it one of the first foreign companies in the newly established country (1); PTC “inherited the business previously conducted by Imperial Tobacco Co., Tobacco Manufacturers India and ILTD [Indian Leaf Tobacco Development]” (1). Philip Morris (PM) entered the Pakistani market in August 1967, obtaining interests in Premier Tobacco Industries Ltd (PTI) through its purchase of the British holding company Godfrey Phillips Ltd (2).
