World No Tobacco Day 2024: The Hidden Dangers of E-cigarettes and Vapes
May 31 is World No Tobacco Day, a day to remind us of the harmful effects of tobacco. While many people know that smoking is bad for their health, fewer realize that e-cigarettes and vapes are also dangerous.
Link Between Tobacco and Cancer
Dr. A.K. Dewan, Director of Surgical Oncology at Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute, explains that tobacco, whether smoked or chewed, is a major cause of cancer. Tobacco contains harmful chemicals called carcinogens that can cause mutations in our cells, leading to cancer. The International Agency of Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified both cigarette smoke and smokeless tobacco as Group I carcinogens, meaning they are known to cause cancer.
Types of Cancers Caused by Tobacco
Tobacco use can lead to many types of cancer, including cancer of the mouth, throat, lungs, and many other organs. In India, nearly 40% of cancers in men and 20% of cancers in women are due to tobacco use. These cancers are most common in states like Meghalaya, where a large portion of the population uses tobacco.
Impact of E-cigarettes and Vapes
Many people believe that e-cigarettes and vapes are safer alternatives to smoking, and they are often marketed as tools to help people quit smoking. However, Dr. Dewan warns that while e-cigarettes might help some adults quit smoking, they also pose significant risks.
E-cigarettes contain nicotine, which is addictive. This means that young people who start vaping may become addicted and later switch to smoking cigarettes. This could lead to a new generation of smokers.
Health Risks of Vaping
Although vaping is less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes, it is not safe. Vapes deliver nicotine through a heated liquid, which produces fewer toxins than burning tobacco but still carries risks. For example, the heating process can release harmful chemicals and metals into the vapor.
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One vape can deliver as many puffs as 50 cigarettes, leading to high nicotine exposure. The high temperatures used in vaping can cause lung irritation and other health problems. There have been cases of lung injuries linked to vaping, known as EVALI (E-cigarette or Vaping Product Use-Associated Lung Injury).
Verdict
On this World No Tobacco Day, it’s important to remember that both traditional tobacco products and newer alternatives like e-cigarettes and vapes can harm your health. Reducing or eliminating tobacco use can significantly decrease the risk of cancer and other health issues. Awareness and education are key to preventing the next generation from falling into the trap of nicotine addiction.
Q&A
Q: Why is tobacco harmful to health?
A: Tobacco contains harmful chemicals called carcinogens, which can cause cancer. It also leads to cardiovascular problems, chest infections, cholesterol disorders, and fertility issues. Tobacco use is a leading cause of preventable diseases.
Q: What types of cancers are caused by tobacco?
A: Tobacco can cause many types of cancer, including cancers of the mouth, throat, voice box, blood, kidneys, urinary bladder, esophagus, lungs, liver, pancreas, stomach, colon, and rectum.
Q: How prevalent are tobacco-related cancers in India?
A: In India, nearly 40% of cancers in men and 20% of cancers in women are due to tobacco use. Meghalaya has the highest rates of tobacco-related cancers, while some regions like Naharlagun in Arunachal Pradesh and Pasighat have lower rates.
Q: Can e-cigarettes help people quit smoking?
A: E-cigarettes can be an effective tool for some adults trying to quit smoking. About 10% of smokers may successfully quit by switching to e-cigarettes, compared to 7% who quit using other methods. However, e-cigarettes are not without risks, especially for young people.
Q: What are the risks associated with e-cigarettes and vaping?
A: Vaping is less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes but is still unsafe. E-cigarettes contain nicotine, which is addictive. Vaping can expose users to harmful chemicals and metals, cause lung irritation, and potentially lead to EVALI (E-cigarette or Vaping Product Use-Associated Lung Injury).
Q: Why is vaping particularly concerning for young people?
A: The nicotine in e-cigarettes is highly addictive, and young people who start vaping are more likely to become addicted and may eventually switch to smoking cigarettes. This could result in a new generation of smokers and associated health problems.
Q: What measures can be taken to reduce the use of tobacco and e-cigarettes?
A: Education and awareness campaigns about the dangers of tobacco and e-cigarettes are crucial. Policies to restrict marketing and sales to young people, as well as support programs for those trying to quit, can also help reduce the prevalence of tobacco use and vaping.
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Q: What should people do on World No Tobacco Day?
A: World No Tobacco Day is a time to learn about the dangers of tobacco and e-cigarettes, support those trying to quit, and advocate for policies that reduce tobacco use. It’s an opportunity to take steps toward a healthier, tobacco-free life.
