Understanding the Risks: The Impact of Tobacco on Health and Wellbeing

For thousands of years, tobacco has been used both for medical and recreational purposes. Like everything that causes a release of dopamine, it leads the user onto a path of addiction. With continued use, however, comes a likelihood of dying young.

In this article, we’ll educate you on the proven benefits of tobacco, and also, the very dark realities that are its disadvantages and health risks, which by far outweigh the benefits.

Benefits Associated with Proper Use of Tobacco

1. Tobacco Leave Tea is used — to treat intestinal worms, as a laxative, to induce vomiting, and to treat cough, fainting, dizziness, and headaches.
2. Tobacco Leave Juice is used over cuts to stop bleeding and as an antiseptic.
3. Tobacco Smoke is introduced into the ear as a treatment for earaches.
4. Tobacco Leave Powder is inhaled through the nose as medicine and for rituals.

Although this plant provides the benefits mentioned above, more than 8 million individuals (including about 1.3 million individuals who inhaled smoke from active tobacco users) die from tobacco use, every year.

Despite the high level of awareness of the risks and dangers associated with increased usage and gross misuse of tobacco, the enticing ads spread by the tobacco industry keep drawing more individuals into the loop of tobacco addiction most especially the youth.

Today, as the world celebrates “World No Tobacco Day (WNTD),” we bring you the dangers associated with tobacco usage and its effects on its users, those around the users, the environment, etc.

Health Risks Associated with Tobacco Use

1. Cancer: The leading cause of 85% of lung cancer cases is tobacco smoking due to the damaging effect of the carcinogens in the smoke which results in the development of cancerous cells in the lungs. The usage of “smokeless tobacco products” such as Snuff, Dissolvable/Chewing Tobacco, and Snus increases the risk of mouth, oesophagal, pancreatic, bladder, kidney, cervical, and stomach cancer.
2. Cardiovascular Diseases: Atherosclerosis results from damage to the linings of the arterial walls by tobacco smoke thus resulting in the narrowing of the arteries causing heart attacks, high blood pressure (HBP), formation of blood clots, and strokes, which often lead to death.
3. Diseases of the Respiratory Tract: Smokers whose lung tissues become inflamed and destroyed by tobacco smoke suffer from chronic bronchitis and emphysema. In addition, smoking triggers and worsens asthma/asthma symptoms in some asthmatic individuals.
4. Reproductive Health Issues: Pregnant women who smoke are highly predisposed to miscarriage, premature birth, delivering babies with low birth weight, stillbirth, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Tobacco smoke harms the reproductive organs and hormone production, thus reducing fertility in male and female smokers alike.
5. Weakened Immune System: Smoking impairs the immune system, increasing smokers' susceptibility to infections such as pneumonia and influenza.
6. Dental Problems: Tobacco use can lead to gum disease, tooth loss, and oral infections.
7. Vision Problems: Smokers have a higher risk of developing cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, both of which can lead to blindness.

Social and Economic Effects/Costs

1. Healthcare Costs: Treating tobacco-related diseases imposes a significant burden on healthcare systems. In many countries, a substantial portion of medical expenses is attributable to smoking-related illnesses.
2. Productivity Losses: Smoking-related illnesses and premature deaths result in lost productivity due to sick days, disability, and early retirement.
3. Environmental Impact: Cigarette butts are a major source of litter and can take years to decompose. The cultivation of tobacco also contributes to deforestation and soil degradation.

Strategies for Prevention and Cessation

1. Education and Awareness: The introduction of public health campaigns that educate people about the risks of smoking can be effective in preventing tobacco use, especially among young people.
2. Support Programs: Providing access to smoking cessation programs, including counselling and medication, can help smokers quit.
3. Policy Measures: Policies such as higher taxes on tobacco products, smoking bans in public places, and restrictions on advertising can reduce tobacco consumption.
4. Supportive Environment: Creating a supportive environment that encourages and facilitates quitting can make a significant difference. This includes support from family, friends, and healthcare providers.

In conclusion, the dangers of tobacco usage are extensive and far-reaching, affecting not only individual health but also society and the environment. By understanding these risks and supporting measures to reduce tobacco use, we can move towards a healthier, smoke-free future. Quitting smoking is one of the best decisions a person can make for their health, and numerous resources are available to help individuals on this journey.

Call to Action

If you or someone you know is struggling with tobacco addiction, seek help today. Visit your local health centre or contact a smoking cessation hotline for support. Together, we can combat the devastating effects of tobacco and promote healthier lives.