Srinagar : Over 8 million people worldwide lose their lives to tobacco smoking each year. According to a study, over 1.3 million lives are lost every year to cancers caused by smoking tobacco across seven countries, including India. Despite the life-threatening implications of smoking, the numbers of smokers continue to rise, especially the young population. On the occasion of World No-Tobacco Day, doctors at Paras Health Srinagar have shared their concerns regarding the increased smoking among youth, while reflecting on the normalization of tobacco in entertainment and pop culture. They have highlighted the role of parents in dealing with the issue and advised youth on how to seek support.
Speaking on the prevalence of smoking in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly Kashmir Valley, Dr Zubair Ahmad Thoker Consultant, Pulmonology Paras Health, Srinagar says, “There is an alarming rise in tobacco use among young people, especially those under the age of 25. The habit is often adopted due to peer pressure, social media influence, and stress. Currently, we are witnessing a normalization of tobacco use in entertainment and pop culture also. However, the consequences of this trend are dire, with early onset of smoking significantly raising the risk of chronic diseases, including lung cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).” He emphasized the importance of immediate intervention stating, “Smoking at a young age not only sets the stage for lifelong addiction but also accelerates the onset of serious health issues. It is crucial for us as healthcare providers to educate and support our youth in making healthier choices.”
The role of parents is extremely important in this endeavor. “Parents play a major role in influencing their children’s attitudes and behaviors towards smoking. By setting a positive example, having open and honest conversations about the dangers of tobacco, and providing emotional support, parents can help prevent their children from starting to smoke and assist those who are already smokers in quitting,” Dr. Zubair adds. Paras Health is committed to contributing to a smoke-free future by creating a supportive environment where young people feel empowered to make positive changes. By providing education, resources, and ongoing support, the hospital is helping youngsters to break free from the grip of tobacco. There is no denying that quitting smoking can be difficult. However, it is achievable. With the proper support and resources, anyone can overcome tobacco addiction. Paras Health is dedicated to promoting health and well-being within communities by offering support services to help individuals on their journey to becoming smoke-free. The hospital provides comprehensive care tailored to each person’s needs, including counseling, nicotine replacement therapy, and behavioral interventions. World No-Tobacco Day is a reminder of the critical need to address tobacco use and its devastating impact on public health. Through collective efforts, smoke-free environments can be created where individuals and families thrive, free from the harmful effects of tobacco.
