Today, on May 31, the world observes World No Tobacco Day, an annual event initiated by the World Health Organization in 1988. The aim is to raise awareness about the detrimental impact of tobacco use on individuals’ health and encourage them to quit this noxious habit. In line with this objective, it is crucial to highlight the numerous reasons why saying ‘NO’ to tobacco is vital for everyone.

1. Cancer: Smoking is a leading cause of various types of cancer, particularly lung cancer. Smokers are 15 to 30 times more likely to develop lung cancer or succumb to it compared to non-smokers. Additionally, smoking is associated with cancers in multiple body parts, including the mouth, throat, esophagus, and more.
2. Chronic Respiratory Conditions: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is primarily caused by smoking, resulting in restricted airflow in the lungs. Smokers also experience exacerbated asthma symptoms and an increased risk of developing asthma.
3. Heart Diseases and Stroke: Tobacco use contributes to the development of cardiovascular diseases and increases the chances of blood clots that can obstruct blood flow to vital organs like the brain, heart, and legs. Such complications have even led to limb amputations in some cases.
4. Diabetes: Smoking has been linked to type II diabetes, with active smokers having a 30 to 40 percent higher risk of developing the disease. Moreover, it can worsen conditions associated with type 1 diabetes, such as kidney disease.
5. Accelerated Aging Process: Prolonged smoking accelerates the aging process, resulting in premature wrinkles, saggy skin, and lackluster hair. Smokers often exhibit yellow-brown stains on their fingers and teeth, along with an increased likelihood of tooth loss and bad breath.
6. Fertility Problems: Both women and men who smoke face fertility challenges. Female smokers may experience difficulties conceiving, while male smokers may have poor sperm quality.
7. Osteoporosis and Menopause: Women who smoke are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis and may experience early onset of menopause compared to non-smokers.
8. Increased Susceptibility to Infections: Smoking weakens the immune system, making the body more vulnerable to bacterial and viral infections.
9. Financial Burden: Smoking is not only detrimental to health but also burns a hole in one’s pocket. In India, individuals who smoke a packet of cigarettes daily can spend approximately Rs 65,000 per year on this self-destructive habit.
10. Mental Health: Growing evidence suggests a negative correlation between smoking and mental health. Studies have found links between smoking and anxiety, panic attacks, depression, and schizophrenia.

On this World No Tobacco Day, let us all reflect on the significant impact of smoking on our lives and the lives of those around us. It is crucial to prioritize our well-being by saying ‘NO’ to tobacco and supporting initiatives that promote a tobacco-free world.