The Effect of Tobacco use on Human Body

Dr Rajesh Kumar Manik( Asst. Prof., Department of  Yoga Science) 

Introduction to Tobacco Use

Tobacco use refers to the consumption of products derived from the tobacco plant, primarily for their psychoactive effects. The most common form of tobacco use is smoking, which involves inhaling and exhaling the smoke produced by burning tobacco. Tobacco use has a long history and is prevalent in many cultures worldwide.Tobacco contains nicotine, a highly addictive substance that acts as a stimulant on the central nervous system. Nicotine addiction is one of the main reasons why people continue to use tobacco despite its harmful effects on health. Apart from nicotine, tobacco smoke contains over 7,000 chemicals, including numerous toxic and carcinogenic compounds, making it a significant public health concern.Smoking tobacco is associated with a range of adverse health effects. The most well-known consequence is an increased risk of developing various types of cancer, such as lung, throat, and mouth cancer. It also contributes to the development of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and stroke, and respiratory conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and emphysema. Smoking during pregnancy can lead to complications, such as low birth weight and preterm delivery.Besides smoking, tobacco use can also involve other forms such as chewing tobacco, snuff, snus, and electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes). Chewing tobacco involves placing a tobacco leaf or plug in the mouth and chewing it, whereas snuff is finely ground tobacco that is sniffed or placed between the gum and cheek. Snus is a type of moist snuff that is placed under the upper lip. E-cigarettes, also known as vaping devices, heat a liquid containing nicotine, which is then inhaled as a vapor.Efforts to control tobacco use have been ongoing for many years due to its detrimental health effects. Many countries have implemented strict regulations on tobacco advertising, packaging, and public smoking. Educational campaigns and public health initiatives aim to raise awareness about the risks associated with tobacco use and help individuals quit smoking.It is essential for individuals who use tobacco to understand the health risks and consider quitting. Various cessation methods, such as nicotine replacement therapy, medications, and counseling, can aid in overcoming nicotine addiction. Quitting tobacco use can greatly improve health outcomes and reduce the risk of developing tobacco-related diseases.

Long-term effects of tobacco use:

Respiratory problems: Smoking damages the respiratory system and increases the risk of developing chronic conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and chronic bronchitis. These conditions cause persistent coughing, shortness of breath, and reduced lung function.

Cardiovascular diseases: Tobacco use is a major cause of cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease, heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. Smoking damages blood vessels, increases blood pressure, and promotes the formation of blood clots, leading to an increased risk of these life-threatening conditions.

Cancer: Tobacco use is a leading cause of various types of cancer, including lung, throat, mouth, esophageal, pancreatic, bladder, kidney, and cervical cancer. Smoking introduces harmful chemicals into the body, such as carcinogens, which can damage DNA and lead to the development of cancerous cells.

Respiratory infections: Smokers are more susceptible to respiratory infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and influenza. The damage caused by smoking weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections.

Reduced fertility: Both male and female smokers may experience reduced fertility. In women, smoking can lead to decreased fertility, complications during pregnancy, premature birth, and low birth weight of infants. In men, smoking can affect sperm quality, reducing the chances of conception.

Oral health problems: Smoking can cause a range of oral health issues, including gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath, tooth loss, and oral cancer. Tobacco use irritates the gums and reduces blood flow to the gums, which can lead to infections and tissue damage.

Skin aging: Tobacco use accelerates the aging process of the skin, leading to premature wrinkles, sagging, and a dull complexion. Smoking restricts blood flow to the skin, depriving it of oxygen and nutrients, while the chemicals in tobacco can damage collagen and elastin, essential for skin elasticity.

Eye diseases: Smoking increases the risk of developing eye diseases such as cataracts (clouding of the lens) and age-related macular degeneration (a leading cause of blindness in older adults). The harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke contribute to the development and progression of these conditions.

Prevention:

Don’t start smoking: If you haven’t started smoking, it’s crucial to continue avoiding it. Understand the risks associated with tobacco use and the addictive nature of nicotine.

Quit smoking: If you are a smoker, quitting is the single most effective way to prevent the harmful effects of tobacco. Seek professional help, such as counseling or medication, if needed. There are various resources available, such as support groups, helplines, and smoking cessation programs, to assist you in quitting.

Avoid secondhand smoke: Secondhand smoke contains many of the same harmful chemicals as directly inhaled smoke. Try to avoid environments where people are smoking, and encourage smokers to do so in designated areas away from nonsmokers.

Stay informed: Educate yourself about the health risks associated with tobacco use. Understand the specific diseases and conditions linked to smoking, such as lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, respiratory problems, and various cancers. This knowledge can motivate you to stay tobacco-free.

Lead a healthy lifestyle: Engage in regular physical activity, yoga,maintain a balanced diet, and get enough sleep. Adopting a healthy lifestyle can strengthen your overall health and reduce the risk of tobacco-related complications.

Seek support: If you’re struggling with quitting tobacco, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Share your goals with friends, family, or healthcare professionals who can provide encouragement and guidance.

Benefits of Quitting Tobacco Use :

Improved respiratory health: Smoking damages your lungs and can lead to chronic conditions such as bronchitis, emphysema, and lung cancer. Quitting tobacco allows your lungs to heal and reduces the risk of developing these diseases. Over time, you will experience improved lung function and better breathing.

Reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases: Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions. When you quit smoking, your risk of heart disease and stroke starts to decrease immediately. Over time, your blood pressure and heart rate normalize, and your blood circulation improves.

Lowered cancer risk: Tobacco use is strongly linked to several types of cancer, including lung, mouth, throat, esophageal, pancreatic, bladder, and kidney cancer. By quitting tobacco, you significantly reduce your risk of developing these cancers and increase your chances of a healthier life.

Enhanced overall health: Smoking harms nearly every organ in the body and weakens the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections and illnesses. By quitting tobacco, your overall health improves, and you’ll be better equipped to fight off diseases and infections.

Increased life expectancy: Research shows that quitting tobacco can add years to your life. Regardless of your age or how long you’ve smoked, quitting can increase your life expectancy and improve your quality of life.

Improved physical fitness: Smoking impairs your ability to engage in physical activities and exercise. When you quit tobacco, your lung capacity increases, making it easier to breathe during physical exertion. This allows you to be more active, leading to improved fitness and overall well-being.

Conclusion: Tobacco use is expensive. By quitting smoking or using other tobacco products, you can save a significant amount of money over time. The money saved can be used for other purposes such as vacations, hobbies, or investing in your future.Improved sense of taste and smell: Smoking can dull your senses of taste and smell. When you quit tobacco, these senses gradually return, allowing you to enjoy food and aromas more fully.Quitting tobacco not only benefits your physical health but also your mental and emotional well-being. Many people report feeling a sense of accomplishment, increased self-esteem, reduced stress, and improved mood after quitting smoking.Remember, quitting tobacco can be challenging, but there are various resources available to support you, such as counseling, support groups, medications, and smartphone apps. It’s never too late to quit, and the benefits are well worth the effort.