World NoTobacco Day, observed annually on May 31, is a global initiative by the World Health Organization to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use and advocate for policies to reduce its consumption. This day highlights the severe health risks of smoking, including heart disease, stroke, cancer, and respiratory illnesses, and underscores the significant burden smoking places on healthcare systems.
World No-Tobacco Day 2024 is Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference.” Participation can include learning about the long-term harms of smoking, which include:
- Lung Cancer: Causes DNA damage in lung cells, leading to fatal cancer.
- COPD: Results in chronic bronchitis and emphysema, causing breathing difficulties.
- Heart Disease: Leads to atherosclerosis, increasing the risk of heart attacks.
- Stroke: Increases blood pressure and clotting, causing brain damage.
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Reduces blood flow to limbs, risking amputations.
- Respiratory Infections: Weakens the immune system, increasing infection risk.
- Reduced Fertility: Affects hormone levels, leading to conception difficulties.
- Type 2 Diabetes: Increases insulin resistance, raising diabetes risk.
- Weakened Immune System: Suppresses immune function, increasing illness susceptibility.
- Gum Disease and Tooth Loss: Reduces blood flow to gums, causing periodontitis and tooth loss.
