World No Tobacco Day (WNTD), celebrated annually on May 31st, is a global event orchestrated by the World Health Organization (WHO) and collaborating partners. The purpose of this yearly campaign is to bring attention to the detrimental and fatal impacts of tobacco use and second-hand smoke exposure, with a mission to dissuade people from engaging in any form of tobacco use.
The Theme for World No Tobacco Day 2019: “Tobacco and Lung Health”
The emphasis of WNTD in 2019 was placed on “Tobacco and Lung Health”. This initiative aimed at raising public awareness about the damaging effects of tobacco on lung health, ranging from cancer to chronic respiratory diseases. The campaign also acknowledges the fundamental significance lungs hold for general health and well-being.
Additional Roles of Respiratory System
To fully appreciate the harm caused by tobacco, it’s essential to understand the functions of our lungs beyond gas exchange. The respiratory system’s other vital roles include conditioning the air to body temperature and the appropriate humidity level, protecting the body from harmful substances through actions like coughing, sneezing, filtering or swallowing them and supporting our sense of smell.
Health Risks Associated with Tobacco Use
The risks of tobacco use are not limited to lung health. Diseases and conditions that can be triggered by tobacco usage include Lung Cancer, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Heart Disease, Stroke, Asthma, Reproductive Effects in Women, Premature or Low Birth-Weight in Babies, Diabetes, Blindness, Cataracts, Age-Related Macular Degeneration, and susceptibility to over ten types of cancer, including colon, cervix, liver, stomach, and pancreatic cancer.
Dangerous Chemicals Present in Tobacco Smoke
Tobacco smoke encompasses thousands of chemicals, out of which at least 70 are identified carcinogens. Some toxic substances found within tobacco smoke include Nicotine – the addictive substance, Hydrogen cyanide, Formaldehyde, Lead, Arsenic, Ammonia, Radioactive elements such as uranium, Benzene, Carbon monoxide, Nitrosamines, and Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
List of Harmful Chemicals in Tobacco Smoke
| Chemicals | Effects |
|---|---|
| Nicotine | Addictive, harsh on lungs |
| Hydrogen Cyanide | Toxic when inhaled |
| Formaldehyde | Can cause cancer |
| Lead | Dangerous for nervous system |
| Arsenic | Poisonous, can cause cancer |
WHO Recognition for Rajasthan Health Department in Tobacco Control
The WHO selected the Medical & Health Department of the Government of Rajasthan to receive its annual award in 2019 for their commendable work in tobacco control. The department led numerous crusades against tobacco consumption during 2018-2019 in schools, colleges, police stations, and government offices.
Status of Tobacco Use in India
(For this part of the article, more specific data about tobacco use in India is necessary to present an accurate picture of the current status.)
