Tobacco smoking kills more than five million people each year, according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO). The WHO says up to half of current tobacco users will eventually die from tobacco-related disease and the majority of smoking addicts took their first draw at a young age.

An unacceptable ratio of guidance counsellors in schools is hampering caregiving for abused children. Speaking during a Gleaner Editors' Forum on children at risk yesterday, Salomie Evering, head of Clinical Services at The Mico CARE Centre's St Ann's Bay branch, revealed the current ratio was 600 students to one counsellor.

AMID CHALLENGES to have some pregnant mothers tested for HIV/AIDS, the Ministry of Health is working towards decreasing the cases of mother-to-child transmission by 2015.

PARTICIPANTS AT a public forum on child abuse held at the Webster Memorial Church last week recommended a civil service coalition in dealing with the national problem of child abuse.

"I would encourage entrepreneurs to enter their businesses for the National Commercial Bank's (NCB) National Builder Awards (NBA), as I believe the programme offers an opportunity for greater awareness of the intricacies of operating a business and an avenue for greater public awareness of the products and services being offered," said Jackie Minott, managing director of Jamaica Standard Products (JSP) Company Limited.

What are your expectations for a possible increase in the minimum wage which is currently set at between $4,500 and $4,700 per week?

The Combined Disabilities Association Limited is applauding the Government for considering people with disabilities for home grants at the National Housing Trust (NHT), saying it is great news, especially for some members who are forced to live in conditions that are unsuitable for their well-being.