WWW.WORLDNOTOBACCODAY.COM
NEW YORK, NY -- May 25, 1999 -- Smokers and other tobacco users can now visit www.worldnotobaccoday.com ( or www.wntd.com), a new Web site sponsored by The Coalition for World No Tobacco Day. Mobilized to action by concern over the tobacco epidemic, a group of non-profit organizations and corporations formed The Coalition for World No Tobacco Day.
World No Tobacco Day, initiated in 1988 and observed annually on May 31, is the only global event established to call worldwide attention to the impact of tobacco use on public health. Backed by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the recognized arm of the United Nations and the regional office of the Americas for the World Health Organization, World No Tobacco Day provides an opportunity to educate smokers and other tobacco users about the dangers associated with tobacco and appeals to tobacco users worldwide to quit for at least one day.
Wntd.com provides in-depth coverage of World No Tobacco Day events and interactive tools enabling tobacco users to take a step towards better health by quitting for World No Tobacco Day. Wntd.com also offers parents valuable tips about speaking with their children about not ever starting tobacco use.
"Wntd.com is the perfect vehicle for consumers to learn more about World No Tobacco Day, how they can become involved and what steps they can take to end their tobacco addiction," said Dr. David Kessler, former commissioner of the United States Food and Drug Administration. "This informative site answers the growing demand for health care information on the Internet." Dr. Kessler is honorary co-chair of the Coalition for World No Tobacco Day along with John Seffrin, Ph.D., chief executive officer of the American Cancer Society.
The World No Tobacco Day Web site is divided into six distinct areas:
About World No Tobacco Day
This area of wntd.com highlights World No Tobacco Day activities and frequently asked questions about World No Tobacco Day. Information about treatment options to help people quit using tobacco is also provided. A printable pledge form and checklist, useful tools for people who want to quit, are included.
The Coalition for World No Tobacco Day
Web site visitors are invited to download information about The Coalition for World No Tobacco Day, featuring World No Tobacco Day posters and public service announcements. Visitors are encouraged to share this information with their company management and become active Coalition participants. Current Coalition members are also listed in this section.
I Quit Tobacco Use
Smokers are reminded to "leave the pack behind" by signing an online pledge for World No Tobacco Day. A "quitometer" database that tracks and displays the length of time a person has been tobacco-free provides recognition of efforts to end the addiction. Web site visitors can submit their profile and testimonial online and share their personal success stories and suggestions about breaking their tobacco dependence.
For Parents
This section is devoted to advice and tips for parents about speaking openly with their children about avoiding tobacco use. Parents and children can also role-play the scenarios provided and discuss ways to resist peer pressure to experiment with cigarettes or other forms of tobacco.
Resource Library
A listing of books and research articles on smoking cessation techniques links to Amazon.com, making it simple and convenient for Web site visitors to purchase these resources online.
Newsroom
The Newsroom is a one-stop resource for the media. Members of the media can access virtual press kits, an image gallery, story angle ideas and World No Tobacco Day event information. A news alert system will also email the latest World No Tobacco Day information directly to members of the media.
Future updates of wntd.com will feature highlights from World No Tobacco Day events, success stories from people who pledged to end their tobacco use for World No Tobacco Day and a buddy center for quitters to communicate with others who are battling to overcome their tobacco addiction.