The impact of smoking in developing countries with special reference to Africa

The health effects of smoking have been well documented in developed countries. This article highlights the impact of smoking and tobacco production on health and agricultural production in Africa. It shows that smoking represents an important current and future health risk to people in Africa, which will place stresses on the development of their health services. Tobacco production is shown to be associated with food imports, deforestation, and an economic dependence on transnational corporations. Possible solutions are proposed.