According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 80.2% of young people have smoked at some point. Project Zero, led by the Spanish Association against Cancer, aims to create the first “smoke-free” generation by 2030, giving young people a voice with innovative initiatives and proposals led by them.
young people smoking
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Frame taken from the promotional video of the project launch campaign. /Photo provided by Project Zero
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Frame taken from the promotional video of the project launch campaign. /Photo provided by Project Zero
Him tobacco is the second most consumed psychoactive substance among young people (only behind alcohol) according to the 2021 Survey on Drug Use in Secondary Education in Spain (ESTUDES 2021), which investigates smoking and the use of other substances at these ages.
According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), 80.2% of young people between the ages of 14 and 18 have smoked tobacco at least once. Furthermore, the latest Survey of Drug Use in Secondary Education in Spain (ESTUDES 2023) places the consumption of e-cigarettes and vaping devices at its highest point.
According to the Spanish Association against Cancer, tobacco is the first cause of preventable death in the world and in Spain, where the 22% of the population is still smokers.
Furthermore, the WHO indicates that smoking causes 8 million deaths per year worldwide and is linked to 16 types of cancer.
Objectives of the Zero project
Project Zero is an initiative that gives young people a voice and makes them protagonists in the fight against tobacco in Spain. To do this, they are looking for ways to promote tobacco-free spaces through various proposals developed by them within the hashtag #QUENOTEVENDANHUMO.
The vision of this manifesto proposes an approach through three key points:
Him Project Zero is an initiative whose aim is to mobilize young people and organizations to achieve the first “smoke-free” generation by 2030.
It was created by the Alliance of Tobacco-Free Entities led by the Spanish Association against Cancer and supported by the Lo Que De Verdad Importa Foundation (LQDVI).
Since World No Tobacco Day, May 31, a group of young people have participated in a forum for reflection on solutions and practices which can help them promote a healthy lifestyle.
The program is aimed at young people from generation Z whose commitment makes them leaders and references in the fight against tobacco. Of the 978 registrations made, 60 young people were selected from 35 different cities based on their capacity for commitment, leadership, inspiration, persuasiveness and passion.
The results of the forum were analyzed by a group of experts in medicine, youth and smoking. The parameters applied respect the quality of the contents, the impact potential of the projects or their technique to promote the fight against smoking at a young age.
Los 12 projects presented on the part of young people they propose different approaches to smoking 6 areas identified key:
- Territory and culture
- Free time and free time
- Environment
- Sport
- Health
- Instruction
The Alliance of Tobacco-Free Entities aims to do this promote a tobacco-free movement Make it more than just a campaign. Its strategy seeks
The Alliance has the support of 11 groups:
- Spanish Association against Cancer.
- What Really Matters Foundation (LQDVI).
- Youth Council of Spain.
- Scouts of Spain.
- State Confederation of Student Associations (CANAE).
- Spanish Red Cross
- Youth fashion.
- Children’s platform.
- Talent for the future.
- Spanish Network of Health Promoting Universities (REUPS).
- The Ricky Rubio Foundation.
– What are some effective strategies to prevent youth smoking and promote a smoke-free culture?
Title: Creating a Smoke-Free Future: An Interview with Dr. Elena Ruiz, Tobacco Control Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Ruiz! Thank you for joining us today to discuss such an important issue. The recent findings from the World Health Organization reveal that over 80% of young people have experimented with smoking. What do you think are the primary factors contributing to this high statistic?
Dr. Elena Ruiz: Thank you for having me! The high prevalence of smoking among young people can be attributed to several factors, including social influences, the normalization of smoking in media and popular culture, and accessibility to tobacco products. Additionally, young people often engage in risky behaviors seeking social acceptance, which can make smoking appealing.
Time.news Editor: It’s a significant concern. In response to this issue, the “Project Zero” initiative aims to create a smoke-free generation by 2030. Could you share your thoughts on how effective this initiative could be?
Dr. Elena Ruiz: Project Zero is a groundbreaking initiative that empowers young people to take the lead in the fight against tobacco. By promoting their voices and ideas—especially through the hashtag #QUENOTEVENDANHUMO—it fosters a proactive approach. If young people are actively involved in shaping the dialog around smoking and creating tobacco-free spaces, I believe we can significantly reduce exposure to tobacco products and change cultural perceptions about smoking.
Time.news Editor: The initiative emphasizes three key points: “Zero Exposure,” “Zero Manipulation,” and engaging the younger generation in a candid conversation about health risks. Why do you think it’s important for the youth to lead this conversation?
Dr. Elena Ruiz: It’s crucial because young people are more likely to listen and relate to their peers than to adults. By allowing them to be spokespeople in this movement, we can create a genuine shift in attitudes towards smoking. They can communicate the risks and advocate for a healthier lifestyle in a way that resonates with their generation. Furthermore, peer-led initiatives have proven to be more effective in influencing behavior change.
Time.news Editor: Absolutely! The link between smoking and preventable deaths is alarming. According to the WHO, it accounts for a staggering 8 million deaths annually. How does the burden of tobacco-related diseases impact the healthcare system, especially in countries like Spain?
Dr. Elena Ruiz: The healthcare burden is substantial. Not only does smoking lead to chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease, but the costs associated with treating these conditions strain public health resources. In Spain, where 22% of adults are still smokers, the economic implications are profound. Investing in prevention initiatives like Project Zero can ultimately lead to reduced healthcare costs and foster a healthier society overall.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like a holistic approach is necessary—not just targeting youth but also addressing the culture surrounding smoking. How can professionals and organizations support young activists in this fight against tobacco?
Dr. Elena Ruiz: They can provide mentorship, resources, and platforms for young activists to share their initiatives. Education on the harms of tobacco, combined with support for engagement campaigns, can also create a ripple effect. Organizations, especially those in public health, must also advocate for policy changes that align with the objectives of initiatives like Project Zero, ensuring that young people’s voices are heard in decision-making processes.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Ruiz. Even though the statistics are troubling, it’s refreshing to see initiatives like Project Zero giving young people a voice in combating tobacco. What’s your final message for our readers?
Dr. Elena Ruiz: My final message is that every small action counts. Whether you’re a young person participating in Project Zero or an adult supporting tobacco control initiatives, your voice matters in this fight against smoking. Let’s come together to envision a future where the next generation can grow up in a smoke-free environment. Change is possible, especially when we empower our youth.
Time.news Editor: Thank you once again, Dr. Ruiz, for your valuable insights and for shedding light on such an important issue. Let’s hope for a smoke-free future by 2030!