"Tobacco-related diseases are on the rise among women, particularly young women," said WHO in a 222-page study on "Women and the Tobacco Epidemic -- Challenges for the 21st Century."

WHO pointed to aggressive tobacco marketing and exposure to secondhand smoke for the increase.

"Only recently have women in developing countries begun to smoke," the report said. "It may be several decades before the full health impact is felt, but devastating health consequences are inevitable unless action is taken today."

WHO recommended that countries implement controls on advertising and smoking in public places.

"False images of good health, fitness, stress relief, beauty and being slim are used to appeal to women," WHO said. "Tobacco products are promoted as a means of attaining maturity, gaining confidence, being attractive and in control of one's destiny -- effectively exploiting the struggle of women everywhere for equality."

According to WHO estimates, about 12 percent of women throughout the world smoke, compared with about 48 percent of men. But in some countries, the rate of female smokers is as high as 24 percent.

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