Bhutan has banned tobacco sales, yet it still has the highest number of teenage tobacco users in South-East Asia. A WHO report shows that nearly one-fourth of Bhutanese teens smoke, and many also use other tobacco products. Among 5,809 surveyed students, around 1,700 reported using tobacco, making teen users about 9.4% of the population. The report links high tobacco, alcohol, and drug use to mental health issues like depression and anxiety, and says real numbers may be higher since out-of-school teens weren’t surveyed. Despite bans, substance use remains common, with 24.2% of teens drinking alcohol and about 10% facing problems such as fights, missing school, or family issues.

In the name of Jesus, we declare that every chain of addiction among adolescents is broken. Tobacco, alcohol, and drug dependence shall lose power and influence. Amen (The Holy Bible, John 8:36).

We declare divine wisdom over leaders, schools, and parents to guide the youth with love, discipline, and effective strategies that protect them from harmful habits. In Jesus’ name. Amen (The Holy Bible, 2 Timothy 1:7).

News Source: Bhutan Today

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