World No Tobacco Day is held every year to inform people about the health dangers of using tobacco and to support policies that reduce tobacco use. This day emphasizes the serious health issues caused by smoking, including heart disease, stroke, cancer, and breathing problems. Smoking leads to millions of deaths each year and puts a heavy load on healthcare systems.

History and Importance

The World Health Organization (WHO) created World No Tobacco Day in 1988 through Resolution WHA42.19, to be celebrated annually on May 31. Before this, the WHO declared April 7, 1988, as a world no-smoking day with Resolution WHA40.38 to mark its 40th anniversary. These efforts aim to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco and encourage people to quit smoking.

Theme for 2024

The theme for World No Tobacco Day 2024 is “Protecting children from tobacco industry interference.” This theme focuses on shielding young people from the influence of the tobacco industry to ensure a continuous decrease in tobacco use.

Harmful Effects of Smoking

Lung Cancer: Smoking introduces harmful chemicals into the lungs that can damage cell DNA. This damage can lead to lung cancer, which has symptoms like coughing, weight loss, and chest pain. Lung cancer is often deadly and greatly reduces the quality of life.

Heart Disease: Chemicals in cigarette smoke harm blood vessels, leading to a condition called atherosclerosis. This condition narrows and hardens the arteries, reducing blood flow and oxygen to the heart. It raises the risk of heart attacks, heart failure, and chest pain, resulting in high death and illness rates.

Stroke: Smoking increases blood pressure and makes blood more likely to clot. These clots can block blood flow to the brain, causing strokes. Strokes can lead to paralysis, and speech problems, and can be fatal.

Respiratory Infections: Smoking weakens the immune system and damages airways, making it easier to get infections like pneumonia and bronchitis. This results in more frequent illnesses and worse overall health.

Type 2 Diabetes: Smoking makes it harder for the body to control blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This disease can cause complications such as nerve damage, kidney disease, and vision problems.

World No Tobacco Day is a vital reminder of the dangers of tobacco use and the importance of protecting future generations from its harmful effects.

Re-reported from the article originally published in Business Standard.