Whether it’s lighting up a cigarette during a stressful moment or casually puffing in social settings, tobacco use is more widespread than we often admit. But beneath the haze of smoke lies a stark reality: tobacco is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths worldwide.
What does tobacco do to your body?
Tobacco use affects nearly every organ in the body, leading to a wide range of diseases and long-term health complications. Here’s how:
Respiratory system damage
Tobacco smoke contains over 7,000 chemicals, many of which are toxic and carcinogenic (unsafe). Inhalation damages the cilia (tiny hair-like structures) in the lungs, leading to reduced lung function, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. Long-term use often results in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and dramatically increases the risk of lung cancer.
Cardiovascular harm
Nicotine, the primary addictive component of tobacco, causes blood vessels to constrict, raising blood pressure and heart rate. Over time, this contributes to the hardening of arteries (atherosclerosis), heart attacks, and strokes.
Cancer risk
Tobacco use is linked to at least 15 types of cancer, including oral, throat, bladder, pancreatic, and cervical cancers. The carcinogens in tobacco trigger mutations in the body’s DNA, turning healthy cells into cancerous ones.
Reproductive and immune system effects
Smoking decreases fertility in both men and women, increases the risk of miscarriage, and impairs the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and autoimmune diseases.
What type of drug is tobacco?
Tobacco contains nicotine, which is classified as a stimulant drug. While it briefly boosts mood and concentration, nicotine is highly addictive. It acts on the brain’s reward system, reinforcing the urge to use it again. Dependence can develop quickly, often after just a few uses. Withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and cravings make quitting a difficult challenge for many.
What is the difference between tobacco and nicotine?
While nicotine and tobacco are often used interchangeably in conversation, they are not the same thing.
Tobacco is the source, and nicotine is the addictive ingredient. Tobacco harms through both nicotine addiction and the toxic substances released when smoked or chewed. Nicotine alone (like in patches or gums) is less harmful, but still addictive
What are anti-tobacco drugs?
Anti-tobacco drugs are designed to help individuals quit smoking and reduce withdrawal symptoms. Common treatments include:
- Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)
Products like patches, gums, lozenges, nasal sprays, and inhalers provide a controlled dose of nicotine without the harmful chemicals found in tobacco smoke.
- Non-nicotine medications
This may include antidepressants that helps reduce nicotine cravings and medication reducing withdrawal symptoms.
These medications are most effective when combined with behavioural therapy and support groups.
What is the meaning of anti-smoking?
Anti-smoking refers to actions, policies, and campaigns aimed at reducing tobacco use and exposure to second-hand smoke. This includes public health campaigns, smoking bans in public places, educational programs, and support for cessation efforts. The movement is driven by overwhelming scientific evidence of tobacco’s harmful effects, to save lives and improve public health outcomes.
Why is Anti-Tobacco Day observed?
World No Tobacco Day, observed on May 31st, was established by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 1987. The day serves to:
- Raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use.
- Advocate for effective policies to reduce consumption.
- Empower individuals with knowledge and resources to quit.
Tobacco use remains one of the gravest threats to global health, yet it is entirely preventable. Understanding what tobacco does to your body is the first step toward change. Whether you’re a smoker seeking support to quit or someone passionate about public health, embracing anti-tobacco efforts makes a difference.
If you would like to quit smoking and are finding it difficult, consult a doctor today. There are also various programs and support groups one can join that yield successful results.
