Tobacco use - still a public health challenge

Smoking is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths worldwide, claiming millions of lives annually. Despite widespread awareness of its harmful effects, tobacco use remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in countries like Pakistan.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tobacco kills more than 8 million people each year, including 1.2 million non-smokers exposed to secondhand smoke. Smoking is a major risk factor for numerous diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory illnesses, and diabetes. It is estimated that half of all long-term smokers will die from tobacco-related diseases. Smoking adversely affects almost the whole body.

Smoking damages the airways and alveoli in the lungs, leading to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and chronic bronchitis. It is also the primary cause of lung cancer, accounting for 85% of all cases globally. Similarly, smokers are at a higher risk of developing respiratory infections like pneumonia and tuberculosis.

This habit increases the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease. It contributes to the buildup of plaque in arteries, leading to reduced blood flow and increased risk of heart attacks.

Tobacco smoke contains over 7,000 chemicals, at least 70 of which are known carcinogens. Smoking is also linked to cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, pancreas, bladder, kidney, liver, stomach, and colon.

Smoking can cause infertility in both men and women. Pregnant women who smoke are at risk of complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth. It weakens the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and delaying recovery from illnesses. Other adverse effects include accelerated aging, leading to premature wrinkles and skin damage. It increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and vision problems like cataracts and macular degeneration.

Pakistan is one of the 15 countries with the highest burden of tobacco use, with approximately 24 million adults in Pakistan using tobacco in some form. Recent estimates say the number of tobacco users is more than 31 million. Nearly 40% of adults and 55% of children are exposed to secondhand smoke at home or in public places.

Though Pakistan has implemented measures such as higher taxes on tobacco products, graphic health warnings on cigarette packs, and bans on smoking in public places, enforcement remains weak. Additionally, the illicit trade of tobacco products continues to thrive.

Smoking is a deadly habit with far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, and societies. In Pakistan, the high prevalence of tobacco use poses a significant threat to public health and economic stability. By implementing effective tobacco control policies, raising awareness, and supporting smokers in quitting, Pakistan can reduce the burden of tobacco-related diseases and move toward a healthier future.