World No Tobacco Day: A Call to Quit Smoking and Embrace Healthy Living

Contributed by 

Mr Kaisar Ahmad Malla

Working as Jr Staff Nurse-Govt Medical College Kantbagh-Baramulla.

email : kaisarmalla19@gmail.com.

Tobacco is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. It is responsible for one in every ten adult deaths and nearly half of all children exposed to second-hand smoke. That’s why the World Health Organization (WHO) and its partners celebrate World No Tobacco Day on May 31 each year.

This year’s theme emphasizes the need to quit smoking for a healthier and happier life.

Smoking poses serious health risks that can lead to life-threatening diseases. It increases the risk of lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, respiratory diseases and premature death.

Nicotine in tobacco products is highly addictive, making it hard for smokers to quit. But with the right strategies and support, it’s possible to quit smoking and improve your health.

The day my young friend died of lung cancer was a day that changed my life forever.

It was a wakeup call for me, a smoker for over  10 years, to finally quit smoking .

I remember the day like it was yesterday. My friend, who was only in his early 30s,had been battling lung cancer for several years. Despite his bravery in fighting this terrible disease, he lost the battle and passed away.

Watching my friend fight so bravely against lung cancer was a sobering reminder of the damage that smoking can do to one’s body.

I realized that I was not invincible and that my habit could cost me my life too.

It wasn’t easy quitting smoking. I had tried many times before and relapsed each time. But this time, I was determined to quit and stay smoke-free for good. I sought support from my loved ones and took advantage of resources available to help me quit.

The journey to become a non-smoker was tough, but I persevered. I kept reminding myself of my friend and the pain he had gone through to motivate myself.

I am now proud to say that I have been smoke-free for over two years. Quitting smoking has had a profound effect on my life, and I feel healthier and happier than ever before. I am grateful for the wake-up call my friend’s death gave me.

If you are a smoker,please take heed and consider quitting.

Smoking is not worth losing your life over.

Seek help and support if you need it,and take the first step towards a healthier and smoke-free life.

There are different ways to quit smoking,including nicotine replacement therapy,medication,and counseling.

Nicotine gums,patches,lozenges,and inhalers can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

Medications such as bupropion and varenicline can also help smokers quit.

Additionally, individual or group counseling can provide emotional support and teach coping strategies to manage cravings and stress.

Quitting smoking has numerous benefits for your health.

You lower your risk for lung cancer,heart disease,and stroke,which means a longer life expectancy.

Your circulation and lung function improve, and you’ll breathe easier.

Moreover,you’ll have more energy,money,and quality time with family and friends.Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health and well-being.

Besides quitting smoking, adopting healthy habits can help prevent diseases and improve overall health.

Eating a balanced diet,getting regular exercise, and managing stress are essential components of a healthy lifestyle.

Moreover,avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke,air pollution,and chemicals can reduce the risk of respiratory diseases,cancers,and other health problems.

In conclusion,World No Tobacco Day is an opportunity to raise awareness about the dangers of smoking and the benefits of quitting for a healthier life.

If you smoke, it’s never too late to quit. Seek support,learn coping strategies, and make a plan to quit smoking. Embrace healthy habits,and protect yourself and your loved ones from the harms of tobacco.Together,we can achieve a smoke-free world and a healthier future for all.