Altria Group Launches Tobacco Rights Site

Altria Group Inc.'s tobacco operating companies launched a "Citizens for Tobacco Rights" Web site last week. The new site is geared toward "adult tobacco consumers who are interested in information and advocacy on tobacco-related public policy issues," according to a company statement. "Philip Morris USA, U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company and John Middleton believe that it is important for adult tobacco consumers to make their voices heard on issues that affect them." According to the company, the new site, Citizens for Tobacco Rights, offers adult consumers information, tools and resources to help them "get informed, involved and active on tobacco issues."

Civil Society Support Anti-Tobacco Legislation

The civil society organizations and medical practitioners announced all out support to the government of Khyber Pakthunkhwa for its endeavour to make necessary legislation against smokeless tobacco (naswar) and demanded strict laws against its use and selling to protect people from its dangerous health hazards. Dr Liaqat Ali, a general medical practitioner and Chest Specialist told APP that one of the causes of lung, stomach and mouth cancer is the use of naswar, which is also contributing to bronchitis, kidney, heart and other diseases.