A shocking video has been circulating the internet. It’s of a two-year old boy in Indonesia smoking. There are so many things that are wrong with this situation, but two to pay special attention to. First, the lack of prevention. There are some treatment options in the community, but nothing to educate about dangers of tobacco or other drugs and encourage positive & healthy choices. Second, tobacco marketing does make a difference. Indonesia has one of the highest smoking rates in the world. It’s no surprise that the tobacco companies flood the country with ads that aren’t allowed in the US. This contribute to the perception that smoking is just a normal thing to do.
It’s shocking, alarming, and heartbreaking, but it should serve as a reminder that prevention is essential. This video shows that habits start young. Parents and youth alike need to be aware of the dangers. Communities need to enact policies and practices to protect their people from vicious marketing. Countries need to take steps toward the health and safety of their youth.
Here is the link to the CBS News broadcast: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/video/2010/07/01/VI2010070101396.html#
