Smoking Hazard

The regular consumption of the tobacco in the form of either cigarettes, or chewing causes dependency on tobacco is called Smoking. The prolonged use of tobacco may lead to the dependency of the body on them is called tobacco addiction. Tobacco is the one of the most abused substances in the world which is made up from the leaves of tobacco plants (Nicotiana tobaccum and N. Rustica).

Smoking is the major cause of death in the world today. According to a report issued by WHO, smoking is currently responsible for the death of about 5 million deaths world wide each year. The report further estimates if current smoking patterns continue, it will cause 10 million deaths each year by 2020.

Smoking harms nearly every organ of the body, causing many diseases and affecting the health of smokers in general. Smoking and consumption of tobacco products in Nepal is a major health problem. Approximately 15,000 people are estimated to die to tobacco consumption every year, according to Nepal Cancer Relief Society report. Furthermore, smoking is the most common risk factor for diseases. According to health reports, tobacco smoke contains more than 4,000 chemical compounds, including at least 43 cancer causing compound.

Causes of Smoking

1. Imitation and pressure of parents and friends

2. To reduce tension and to get relief from pain

3. As a fashion and for personal pleasure

4. Ceremonial and ritualized smoking

5. As an aid to contemplation

Types of Smoking

1. Nicotine

Nicotine is an addictive toxic alkaloid chemical. It is present in cigar; if injected intravenously, can kill a human being. Its regular use causes multiple ill effects.

2. Hemp Plant

There are two species of himp plants; Cannabis Indica and C. Sativa. Their dry leaves and flowers yield various drugs. The drugs prepared by Cannabis in Nepal are as follows:

a) Charas b) Bhang c) Marijuana (Gan

Effects of Smoking

• Anesthetized and Senselessness
• Confusion and Fears
• It causes premature deaths from diseases like cancer, lung problems.
• It affects in blood vessels cause chronic pains in the legs.
• It reduces women’s fertility.
• It delays healing of peptic ulcers of the stomach and duodenum.

Control of Smoking

1. By providing health education and information about the evils of smoking

2. Smoking should be discouraged by community.

3. Strict implementation of law to discourage smoking.

4. Treatment and hospitalization of sick people.

5. Smokers may be suggested for substitutes like chewing gum, cannatas etc.