No Tobacco Day: The costly habit of tobacco consumption

No Tobacco Day is observed on 31st May 2024 which serves as an annual reminder of the effects of tobacco on individuals and societies worldwide. Beyond the well-known health risks, the financial burden of tobacco consumption is staggering. Let's understand the facts and figures surrounding the consumption of cigarettes, the heavy burden it places on our pockets and the impact it has on our health.

About tobacco consumption

With millions of lives lost each year due to smoking-related illnesses, tobacco consumption remains a global health crisis. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tobacco kills more than 8 million people annually, with over 7 million of these deaths attributed to direct tobacco use and around 1 million to non-smokers being exposed to second-hand smoke.

The number of cigarettes smoked

In the quest for a deeper understanding of the gravity of tobacco consumption, examining the volume of cigarettes smoked worldwide is enlightening. On average, a regular smoker consumes about 20 cigarettes per day. This translates to roughly 7000+ cigarettes per year per smoker. Multiply this by the millions of smokers worldwide, and the numbers become staggering. In 2020, the global cigarette consumption is estimated to be over 5.2 trillion cigarettes annually.

The cost on pockets

For individuals, the cost of tobacco adds up quickly. In India, the price of cigarettes continues to rise due to taxes and regulations aimed at curbing tobacco use. On average, the price of 1kg tobacco packet is Rs. 64, whereas a pack of cigarettes costs around Rs. 200-250 in India. For a pack-a-day smoker, this amounts to over Rs. 70,000 per year, a significant financial burden that could be allocated to other necessities or savings.

Health implications

The health consequences of tobacco use are well-documented. Smoking is a leading cause of preventable death worldwide, contributing to a wide range of illnesses, including lung cancer, heart disease, stroke and respiratory problems. Smokers are at least twice as likely to die from these smoking-related diseases than non-smokers. The healthcare system bears a heavy burden in treating smoking-related illnesses, diverting resources that could be allocated elsewhere.

Precautions to lead a better life

Emphasizing the importance of taking precautions to limit tobacco intake and improve overall health is essential. Quitting smoking or using other tobacco products significantly reduces the risk of serious health issues like cancer, heart disease and respiratory problems. Precautions include avoiding environments where smoking is common, seeking support from healthcare providers and using cessation aids like nicotine patches or gum. Adopting a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet can also aid in overcoming nicotine addiction. Individuals can lead a better life, free from the harmful effects of tobacco by taking these steps.

Conclusion

As we observe No Tobacco Day on 31st May 2024, let us reflect on the facts and figures surrounding tobacco consumption. The cost of tobacco is high indeed but by raising awareness and supporting individuals in their efforts to quit smoking, we can work towards a world free from the grip of tobacco addiction, where all can enjoy healthier, smoke-free lives.