Pune: As tobacco consumption continues to rise in various forms despite widespread awareness of its dangers, experts stress the urgent need to make tobacco products more expensive and less accessible. On the other hand, commitment of habitual individuals to quit tobacco is crucial in reducing its harmful impact on health.31 May is observed as World No Tobacco Day and highlights the importance of awareness on the harmful effects of Tobacco. The theme for this year is “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products.” ‘ stresses on not falling prey to marketing tactics of tobacco products
Dr. Anup Tamhankar, Onco- Surgeon at VishwaRaj Hospital, Loni said that tobacco in all its forms is equally harmful be it smoking, chewing, inhaling etc. The most common cancer as a result is oral cancer, followed by oesophageal and lung cancer. Unfortunately, despite increasing awareness, smoking is still accepted in society. The message should be clear that smoking is not a pleasure, but a way to not only cause harm to self but others who hang out with you. Therefore, passive smoking and its ill effects are on the rise.
He said that there is a need to stop tobacco production, no import and make it costlier so that the cost becomes a deterrent and become off limits for especially the younger generation. Of course determination to quit by any habitual individual is the most important step towards deaddiction.
Dr. Rajat Bhende, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon at VishwaRaj Hospital said that the most important factor while quitting apart from determination is counselling especially for habitual patients. During counselling we tell them the harmful effects of tobacco. We stress that any form of tobacco is harmful and is responsible for a number of Cancers. Even if they quit or consume tobacco for a limited period, they are at risk for some period of time. We counsel them with examples. Once diagnosed with cancer, the patient as well as the families suffer mentally, financially and emotionally. The positive aspect is that many patients respond to counselling. For those who have a habit of tobacco as well as alcohol consumption, we do involve a psychologist or psychiatrist.
