Tobacco Use: A Threat to Human Health and Well-being in Pakistan

Strategic Insights -

Tobacco use, in all its forms, poses a significant threat to human health and well-being, particularly in Pakistan where approximately 54% of the population is affected by tobacco addiction. The Cancer Society of Multan has expressed deep concern over the increasing use of e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches among the youth, calling for urgent and decisive action to curb this growing trend. The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that over 8 million people die annually due to tobacco use worldwide, with Pakistan accounting for around 166,000 deaths every year.

Key Takeaways:

  • Tobacco use is a leading cause of preventable deaths worldwide, with over 8 million people dying annually.
  • In Pakistan, tobacco use is linked to 166,000 deaths every year, including 31,000 from secondhand smoke.
  • The Cancer Society of Multan highlights the alarming rate of tobacco use among Pakistani youth, with 32% of youth and 8% of women smoking.
  • Tobacco use is a major risk factor for cancer, with smoking being the leading cause of cancers of the mouth, throat, and lungs.
  • The Cancer Society emphasizes the severe impact of tobacco smoke on children's health, increasing the risk of asthma, sinus infections, bronchitis, and cognitive weakness.
  • The WHO's theme for World No Tobacco Day 2023 is 'Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products.'
  • The Cancer Society of Multan has been commemorating World No Tobacco Day for the past three decades, promoting tobacco cessation and raising awareness about the dangers of tobacco use.

Statistics:

  • Over 8 million people die annually due to tobacco use worldwide (WHO).
  • In Pakistan, around 166,000 deaths occur every year due to tobacco use, including 31,000 from secondhand smoke (WHO).
  • Tobaaco use is a major threat to humanity, with the Cancer Society emphasizing that 'tobacco use is a deadly mistake that can cost you your life.'
  • Smokers die on average 15 years earlier than non-smokers or live years in prolonged suffering.
  • Approximately 54% of the Pakistani population is affected by tobacco addiction, with 32% of youth and 8% of women smoking.
  • The Cancer Society highlights that tobacco damages every organ in the human body and kills nearly 50% of its users.

Sources:

  • A joint statement by President of the Cancer Society Dr Ahmed Ijaz Masood and General Secretary Dr Baqa Jellani Masood.
  • World Health Organisation (WHO). "World No Tobacco Day 2023: Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products."
  • The Cancer Society of Multan. "Commemorating World No Tobacco Day 2023."