BACKGROUND: Tobacco use among youth in Bangladesh remains a critical public health concern, with 35.3% of individuals aged 15 and above using tobacco products, as reported by the Global Adult Tobacco Survey 2017. The portrayal of tobacco use in popular media, including dramas, movies, and web series, significantly influences youth behavior. Despite the Smoking and Tobacco Products Usage (Control) Act prohibiting the advertisement and promotion of tobacco products, violations frequently occur in entertainment content, especially during culturally significant events like Eid.
METHODS: MANAS conducted a survey during Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha to assess compliance with tobacco control laws in dramas and movies aired on 14 popular TV channels. A total of 27 students from Dhaka International University and International University of Business Agriculture and Technology participated in this study, observing content during peak hours (7 PM–10 PM). They recorded instances of tobacco use, presence of warnings, brand promotions, and the necessity of smoking scenes for the storyline. Evidence, including pictures and videos, was collected for analysis.
RESULTS: Out of 72 dramas and movies observed during the first survey, nine instances of tobacco control law violations were identified. Similar findings were noted in the second survey, with six violations among 85 observed dramas. Channels like Channel 9 and Maasranga TV recorded higher instances of violations. Challenges included disruptions caused by load-shedding and limited programming on some channels.
CONCLUSIONS: The survey highlights persistent non-compliance with tobacco control laws in entertainment media, particularly during high-viewership periods like Eid. Such portrayals significantly influence youth, undermining efforts to achieve a tobacco-free Bangladesh. Stricter monitoring, enforcement of penalties, awareness campaigns for media professionals, and enhanced public education are critical to addressing this issue and ensuring law adherence in the entertainment sector.