World No Tobacco Day 2024: Worldwide, tobacco use is a significant public health concern since it can lead to a wide range of health issues that impact different bodily systems. People who smoke and use other tobacco products are exposed to a variety of dangerous substances, which can cause major health problems. Tobacco use continues to be a major contributor to avoidable illnesses and fatalities even in the face of widespread public health initiatives and rising awareness.
To encourage quitting and lower the prevalence of tobacco use, it is essential to comprehend the vast range of health hazards connected to smoking. The effects of tobacco usage are extensive and serious, ranging from cancer and cardiovascular problems to respiratory ailments.
Respiratory diseases
The respiratory system is one of the most directly impacted areas of tobacco use, says Dr Pratibha Dogra, senior consultant - pulmonology and sleep medicine expert, Marengo Asia hospital, Gurugram. She says that toxic compounds are inhaled by tobacco smoke smokers, which can harm lungs both immediately and over time.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are among the lung disorders that are associated with COPD, which is mostly caused by tobacco use. Breathing problems, a persistent cough, and a lower quality of life are caused by COPD.
Lung cancer: The primary cause of lung cancer is smoking. Lung cells are harmed by the carcinogens in tobacco smoke, which can result in mutations and malignant growths. There is also a higher danger for nonsmokers who are around secondhand smoke.
Cardiovascular diseases
The cardiovascular system is greatly impacted by tobacco use, which also contributes to a number of heart and blood vessel problems, says Dr Dogra.
Atherosclerosis: Tobacco smoke contains chemicals that harm the arteries inside lining and encourage the accumulation of plaque. Atherosclerosis is a disorder that narrows blood vessels and increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Elevated heart rate and blood pressure: Nicotine triggers the release of adrenaline, which raises blood pressure and heart rate. This puts further stress on the heart and raises the risk of heart disease.
Cancer diseases
According to Dr Dogra, in addition to lung cancer, tobacco use is connected to a number of other cancers that impact different body parts.
Oral cancer: Cancers of the mouth, throat, and esophagus can be brought on by smoking and chewing tobacco. Due to their late discovery, these tumors frequently have poor prognoses.
Bladder cancer: The kidneys filter the carcinogens from tobacco smoke, which are then retained in the bladder and raise the risk of bladder cancer.
Other health risks
Tobacco use has harmful repercussions that extend beyond problems with the heart, lungs, and cancer. It has numerous additional effects on general health as well.
Reproductive health: Smoking can impact a person's ability to conceive, which can result in pregnancy difficulties and a higher chance of birth abnormalities in both men and women.
Suppression of the immune system: Smoking impairs immunity, leaving the body more vulnerable to illnesses and infections.
Bone health: Osteoporosis, a disorder that weakens bones and raises the risk of fractures, is associated with smoking.
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