Health actors mobilized against tobacco

Every May 31, World No Tobacco Day, initiated in 1987 by the Organisation mondiale de la santé (OMS), constitutes an essential reminder of the dangers of smoking and an incentive to strengthen public policies to reduce its consumption. Tobacco remains one of the leading causes of preventable mortality in the world, responsible for millions of deaths each year and a burden on healthcare systems. For the 2026 edition, the OMS chose a combative theme: 'Unmasking the appeal, fighting nicotine and tobacco addiction'. This orientation aimed to highlight and counter the sophisticated marketing strategies of the tobacco industry, which uses flavors, attractive packaging, and influencer marketing to target the youngest. The theme emphasized the need to better understand and combat the addictive power of nicotine, a substance that alters brain chemistry and makes cessation difficult without proper support.

LOCAL COMMITMENT

Echoing this international mobilization, the CHI committed itself by offering a series of awareness-raising activities for the general public, patients, and healthcare staff. The aim was to inform about the multiple risks associated with tobacco (cancers, cardiovascular, respiratory diseases), present the range of aids to stop smoking, and support people wishing to begin a cessation process. These prevention days constitute an opportunity to meet healthcare professionals (tobacco specialists, nurses, dieticians) in an accessible and caring setting. It is an opportunity to take stock of one's own consumption, ask questions in complete confidentiality, and leave with tools and renewed motivation. In order to reach as wide an audience as possible across its territory, the establishment deployed its initiative on three of its main sites (Wednesday, May 27 in the lobby of the hôpital George Sand in La Seyne-sur-Mer, Thursday, May 28 in the lobby of the hôpital Sainte-Musse in Toulon, and Friday, May 29 at the site of the hôpital Marie-Josée Treffot in Hyères). At the information stands, it was possible to obtain documentation, perform tests to measure carbon monoxide in exhaled air to assess intoxication, or speak with experts to define a personalized cessation strategy. To carry out these actions, the CHI surrounded itself with major health partners, recognized for their expertise and constant commitment to the fight against smoking, including the Comité départemental d’éducation pour la santé (Codes du Var), the Ligue contre le Cancer, and the Caisse Primaire d’Assurance Maladie (CPAM) du Var. This synergy made it possible to offer a 360-degree approach. The Ligue contre le Cancer brought its expertise in the prevention of tobacco-related cancers and support for patients. Finally, the CPAM provided information on the financial coverage schemes for nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gums, etc.), which are reimbursed under medical prescription, thereby removing a significant financial barrier to quitting smoking. •