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Russia Doesn’t Want to be # 1 Anymore

In advance of the UN Summit on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in NYC in September, a national forum on the health of the Russian nation was held in Moscow. Hundreds of medical and public health experts from all across Russia gathered to celebrate successes and find solutions to issues related to NCDs.

One session was dedicated to tobacco control, illustrating how important this issue is for the nation. According to the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS), there are nearly 44 million smokers in the country and almost every Russian is exposed to secondhand smoke in bars and restaurants. 1 in 3 Russians is exposed to smoke in the workplace. Smoking claims 400,000 Russian lives every year and Russia ranks number 1 in smoking rates among countries surveyed.

Fortunately, the Ministry of Health is showing a strong commitment to combating the tobacco epidemic. Dr. Natalia Kostenko, the National Tobacco Control coordinator, introduced a draft of proposed legislation—“On protection of the population from smoking and SHS health consequences”. Here’s a graphic display of the proposed legislation: 

You can look at this graphic more closely here.

A man smokes in a popular coffee house


Smoking area in Moscow international airport


Today in Russia cigarettes cost less than one US Dollar (30 rub).


Each point of sale tempts smokers.

Some highlights from the proposed legislation (an English version can be found in PDF form here):

• Smoking will be gradually prohibited in medical, educational and cultural facilities, as well as in public transportation, waiting areas, and all enclosed working places including bars and restaurants, and the hospitality sector. Presently, you can hardly find a place in Moscow that is free of secondhand smoke

• A minimum price will be introduced and taxes will be increased so cigarettes will cost at least 61 rubles a pack (2 USD).

• Cigarette sales will be allowed only in supermarkets. Open displays will be banned.

• All forms of direct and indirect advertising, including promotion and sponsorship, will be banned.

The tobacco industry is very inventive and uses every advertising loophole available to increase sales of its deadly product.

• Pictorial pack warnings will be introduced next year, and mass media campaigns will play a leading role in educating the public about tobacco’s deadly effects.

• All other forms of tobacco except smoking tobacco will be illegal—that includes e-cigarettes.

Cigarettes currently sold in Russia look harmless and attractive to women and teens

The proposed law is one of the most comprehensive in the world. Implemented correctly, it is expected to reduce smoking prevalence by 10 to 15% by 2020. To support the proposed legislation, leave your comments at http://beztabaka2011.minzdravsoc.ru or submit a letter to the MoH directly @ МЗСР Рахмановский пер., д. 3, г. Москва, 127994. Your voice can help to stop the international tobacco epidemic—and ensure that when it comes to tobacco use, Russia will no longer be #1!