The 13th World Conference on Tobacco OR Health

Objective: The alarming set of deaths and diseases caused by tobacco consumption took 192 countries to discuss the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which aims the implementation of effective measures to control tobacco use expansion and its serious sanitary, social and economical consequences. The quickly adoption of the treaty by the countries demonstrates governments' commitment to implement policies to protect population health. That is also the position of MERCOSUR and Associated countries, which are strengthening their national programs and working together to adopt coordinated measures in tobacco control.

Methods: Since 2003, this theme is integrating the discussions calendar of MERCOSUR Health Ministers meetings, which created an intergovernmental commission to advise them in the implementation of measures directed to reduce tobacco products consumption. That Commission is gathering periodically to discuss the strengthening of actions already developed and to identify priority cooperation projects and research areas.

Results: Several agreements were signed along the last Health Ministers meetings, resulting in significant achievements for the national and regional actions. Some of these measures must be highlighted: adoption of integrated policy and a work-plan for tobacco control; inclusion of "medicines for tobacco cessation" theme in MERCOSUR Medicine Policy; discussion of a tax and tributes harmonization; and intensification of the efforts for FCTC ratification by the countries.