Every year on May 31, the world observes World No Tobacco Day to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco on human health and society. The day was introduced in 1987 as part of a global campaign against tobacco use and its growing dangers. Over the years, this annual observance has become increasingly important, especially for developing countries like Pakistan, where tobacco use is not only a health issue but also a serious social and economic challenge.
Globally, tobacco remains one of the leading causes of preventable deaths. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than seven million people die every year due to tobacco-related diseases. In addition, approximately 1.3 million non-smokers die because of exposure to second-hand smoke. These alarming figures reflect the scale of a crisis that continues to threaten public health worldwide.
Meanwhile, nearly 1.3 billion people across the globe use tobacco in one form or another. Although several developed nations have successfully reduced smoking rates through strict legislation, awareness campaigns, and higher taxation, the problem continues to grow in many developing countries. Medical experts link smoking to lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, respiratory illnesses, and several other life-threatening conditions.
In Pakistan, tobacco consumption has taken various forms including cigarettes, gutka, naswar, paan, and shisha. Surveys show that tobacco use is more common among men, but the number of women and young girls using tobacco products is also increasing. According to reports, more than 164,000 Pakistanis die every year from diseases linked to tobacco consumption. These figures clearly demonstrate that tobacco has now emerged as a national health crisis.
The harmful effects of tobacco are not limited to smokers alone. Smoke in homes, workplaces, restaurants, and public places also affects children, women, and elderly people. Health specialists state that tobacco smoke contains more than 7,000 chemicals, many of which are highly toxic and cancer-causing. Pregnant women exposed to smoke often face serious health complications and premature births, while children may suffer from breathing difficulties, allergies, and weak lungs.
Equally concerning is the growing trend of tobacco use among young people. Reports suggest that nearly 1,200 children in Pakistan start smoking every day. Once this habit begins at a young age, it often continues for life. Furthermore, the growing popularity of e-cigarettes and vaping products has created another dangerous challenge. These products are often marketed as safer alternatives, although experts warn that nicotine can damage brain development and lead to long-term addiction.
Besides health concerns, tobacco also places a heavy burden on Pakistan’s economy. Although the tobacco industry contributes tax revenue, the financial losses caused by treatment costs, hospital expenses, loss of productivity, and premature deaths are far greater. Experts estimate that Pakistan suffers annual economic losses exceeding Rs1,800 billion due to tobacco-related illnesses and healthcare expenditures.
In response to this growing threat, the government has introduced several measures including bans on smoking in public places, warning labels on cigarette packets, restrictions on advertisements, and increased taxes on tobacco products. However, weak implementation, illegal cigarette sales, and the influence of tobacco companies continue to undermine these efforts.
Therefore, health experts believe that stronger and more effective action is urgently needed. Schools, parents, media organizations, healthcare professionals, and religious scholars all have a role to play in discouraging tobacco use and promoting healthier lifestyles among the people.
To conclude, World No Tobacco Day is not merely a symbolic observance but a reminder that protecting public health requires collective responsibility. If Pakistan fails to act decisively today, future generations may face even greater health and economic challenges. A healthier and stronger Pakistan can only be achieved when awareness, prevention, and healthy living become national priorities.
Note: The writer is a freelance journalist based in Lahore, can be reached at rashid.vapk@gmail.com
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