Few people dispute that smoking is damaging health on a global scale. However, many governments have been wary of acting to control smoking through higher taxes, comprehensive bans on advertising and promotion, or restrictions on smoking in public places due to concerns that interventions such as these could have harmful economic consequences. Countries that adopt measures to reduce tobacco use can prevent millions of premature deaths and much disability , especially among the poor. These measures generally will not harm economies. In almost all countries, there would be no net loss of jobs.
Evidence shows that higher tobacco taxes generate increases in revenues.
Even where smuggling becomes a serious problem, tax increases bring greater revenues and reduce smoking. Governments, international agencies, NGOs and citizens can all help to reduce the devastating impact on global health from smoking. Moderate action could win substantial health gains in the 21 st century. This report provides an understanding of the nature and magnitude of the problem and how it can be countered. The biggest cost from tobacco is the enormous toll it brings from disease, suffering and family distress.