Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, tobacco kills up to half of its users, causing approximately 8 million deaths each year. The harmful effects of tobacco extend not just to the smoker but also to those exposed to secondhand smoke. It's never too late to quit smoking and say yes to health.
Tobacco contains nicotine, a highly addictive substance that makes it difficult for smokers to quit. Nicotine addiction is just one of the many harmful effects of tobacco. Other ill effects of tobacco include:
- Increased risk of lung cancer and other types of cancer
- Chronic bronchitis and emphysema
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Reproductive problems, including infertility and low birth weight in babies born to smoking mother
- Premature aging of the skin
- Reduced sense of taste and smell
- Bad breath and stained teeth
- Decreased physical performance
These are just a few of the many ill effects of tobacco use. The longer one smokes, the higher the risk of developing a smoking-related illness.
Quitting smoking cold turkey can be challenging, but there are ways to slowly reduce tobacco consumption. Here are some tips to help smokers quit smoking:
- Set a quit date: Choose a date when you will stop smoking altogether.
- Create a support system: Let family and friends know that you are trying to quit smoking. They can provide emotional support and help you stay on track.
- Try nicotine replacement therapy: Nicotine patches, gum, and lozenges can help reduce nicotine cravings.
- Practice relaxation techniques: Smoking is often a coping mechanism for stress. Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to manage stress.
- Avoid triggers: Identify triggers that make you want to smoke and avoid them. For example, if you usually smoke after a meal, try taking a walk instead.
- Seek professional help: Consider joining a smoking cessation program or seeing a healthcare provider who can provide support and guidance on quitting smoking.
Saying yes to health means saying no to tobacco. Quitting smoking can be challenging, but the benefits are significant. Quitting smoking can improve overall health, reduce the risk of smoking-related illnesses, and increase life expectancy. Start saying ‘yes’ to health and ‘no’ to tobacco today.
