These initiatives aim to encourage healthy behaviors, create a smoke-free environment, and promote public health, especially for the future of young generations.

Local authorities, departments, and organizations across the province have joined forces in this effort with enthusiasm and creativity. The health sector, education system, and youth organizations play key roles in spreading the message "For a Smoke-Free Environment" through a variety of engaging and accessible forms of communication, tailored to the needs of the local population.

Phạm Giang Nam, Director of the provincial Department of Health and Deputy Head of the provincial Tobacco Control Steering Committee, emphasized: “Tobacco control is a priority task in the strategy to protect and improve public health. To achieve the goal of a tobacco-free community, we need strong, coordinated efforts from all political systems, and most importantly, the self-awareness and concrete actions of each individual. This is a long journey, but it can certainly be successful if we are committed and act resolutely and persistently.”

Schools across the province have introduced effective initiatives to spread awareness. At Lương Thế Vinh High School (Điện Biên Phủ city), a communication campaign with the theme “Protecting Children from the Tobacco Industry” was launched through various visual formats such as skits, collective commitment signings, and direct communication with students. These activities raised awareness and provided opportunities for students to express their views and take action in creating a safe, smoke-free school environment.

The momentum for a tobacco-free environment has spread to highland schools. At Điện Biên Đông High School, weekly meetings have become a creative platform for students to showcase their awareness through skits and short videos they produced. They effectively conveyed the message “Say No to Tobacco” in a lively and persuasive manner.

Lò Văn Minh, an 11th-grade student at Điện Biên Đông High School, shared: “I used to think smoking was only an issue for adults, but now I understand that tobacco harms everyone’s health. I will remind my father to quit smoking, and I promise I will never try it.”

In support of this effort, the Điện Biên provincial Youth Union launched the campaign “Youth Pioneers - Say No to Tobacco” across its affiliated branches. Numerous practical activities have been organized, such as mobile awareness campaigns in residential areas, a competition to learn about the Tobacco Control Law, signing “No Smoking in Public Places” pledges, and voluntary youth groups collecting cigarette butts in public areas. The active and responsible participation of the youth has helped spread positive energy, contributing to significant changes in the community.

More and more people are realizing that the harm of tobacco is not only for smokers but also affects those around them, especially children and pregnant women.

Nguyễn Văn Chiến, a vendor at the Mường Thanh market, shared: “I used to smoke a lot, but now I see it harms my health, wastes money, and affects my family, so I’m determined to quit. If I can quit, my children will be happier.”

Beyond awareness campaigns, various agencies, units, and local authorities in the province have actively enforced the Tobacco Control Law. Many public places have posted “No Smoking” signs, and inspection and reminder efforts have been strengthened. Gradually, a culture of smoke-free living is forming in the community. Some units have incorporated “No Smoking in Public Places” into their criteria for evaluation, considering it a standard for assessing healthy and civilized working environments.

Tobacco not only destroys human health but also causes severe environmental damage, from air pollution, littering from cigarette butts, to the risk of fires and explosions. Small actions such as refusing a cigarette, reminding family members not to smoke, or actively participating in awareness campaigns all contribute to creating a clean, healthy environment.