WEB DESK: The World No-Tobacco Day, observed annually on May 31st, is a global initiative led by the World Health Organisation to raise awareness about the side effects of Tobacco use.
This year, the theme is “Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference”, underscores the critical need to prevent future generations from falling prey to the harmful impact of tobacco use.
World No-Tobacco Day, observed annually on May 31, is a global initiative led by the World Health Organisation to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use and advocate for effective policies to reduce its consumption. The day serves as a reminder of the significant health risks associated with smoking, including heart disease, stroke, cancer, and respiratory illnesses. Smoking is detrimental to health, causing millions of deaths each year and imposing heavy burdens on healthcare systems.
Smoking has numerous long-term negative effects on health.
Carcinogenic compounds in tobacco smoke damage the DNA in lung cells. Repeated exposure leads to mutations and uncontrolled cell growth. Lung cancer is often fatal, with symptoms including coughing, chest pain, and weight loss, significantly reducing quality of life and survival rates.
Smoke irritates the airways and destroys lung tissue, leading to chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Causes persistent cough, difficulty breathing, and frequent respiratory infections, severely limiting physical activity and quality of life.
Chemicals in tobacco smoke damage blood vessels, leading to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), which reduces blood flow and oxygen supply to the heart. Increases risk of heart attacks, angina (chest pain), and heart failure, contributing to high mortality and morbidity rates.
Smoking increases blood pressure and makes the blood more likely to clot, which can block blood flow to the brain. Leads to brain damage, resulting in paralysis, speech difficulties, cognitive impairments, and in severe cases, death.
Nicotine and other chemicals damage the arteries supplying blood to the limbs, leading to reduced blood flow. Causes pain, numbness, and increased risk of infections in the limbs, potentially leading to amputations in severe cases.
Smoking impairs the immune system and damages the airways, making it easier for infections to take hold. Increases susceptibility to pneumonia, bronchitis, and other respiratory infections, leading to frequent illness and weakened overall health.
Chemicals in tobacco affect hormone levels and reproductive organs in both men and women. This leads to difficulties in conceiving, increased risk of miscarriage, and complications in pregnancy.
Smoking increases insulin resistance, making it harder for the body to regulate blood sugar levels. Raises the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, which can lead to complications such as neuropathy, kidney disease, and vision problems.
Chemicals in tobacco smoke suppress immune function, reducing the body’s ability to fight off infections and diseases. Results in increased susceptibility to illnesses, slower recovery times, and higher risk of infections and diseases.
