Stop smoking campaigns are taking different forms in different parts of the world. In the United States, there has been a heavy emphasis on the use of commercials, billboards and programs aimed at young children and adults. Many of these programs are funded by big tobacco companies as the result of a lawsuit lost by tobacco them. There have also been movements to make smoking illegal in bars, restaurants, malls and other indoor facilities. This is because of the well documented effects of second hand smoke on non-smokers.

Other countries have also begun to make efforts to curb smoking in their country. For example, in Korea, various districts have declared certain streets as “smoke-free” zones. These streets or areas are generally those that are heavily populated by young children, teenagers and young girls. While individuals can not be arrested or even fined if they smoke in these zones, these places were created to decrease the acceptance of smoking. They have been successful. The percentage of individuals who smoke it these areas have decreased.

In 2006, Michael R. Bloomberg donated $125 million to go towards a campaign to fight tobacco use all over the world. Five organizations were given money to help in the fight. They included the World Health Organization, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, World Lung Foundation and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Foundation.

Smoking cigarettes is a very dangerous habit that claims the lives of millions of people worldwide. Along with the increased incidence of death, illnesses such as cancer, lung and heart related problems are issues for smokers and those who live with them. Countries around the world are taking note and are spreading the word amongst their countrymen. Commercials, pamphlets, youth programs and smoke free zones are all ways in which legislators are involving themselves in the fight against cigarettes and tobacco use in their countries.

As different countries get involved, it will be easier to share successful ideas and campaigns amongst each other. Figuring out what works and then providing that information with global neighbours will help decrease the amount of individuals that are poisoning themselves and their families, friends and loved ones. The more countries that are in the fight against smoking, the better it is for everyone, especially those that these messages are aimed at. As more and more individuals recognize the true dangers of smoking and are encouraged to give it up, then hopefully the worldwide numbers of smoking-related illness and death will decrease.