Time to Act Against a Silent Killer

The history of World Anti-Tobacco Day dates back to 1987 when the World Health Organization (WHO) passed a resolution calling for a day dedicated to highlighting the health risks associated with tobacco use. It is observed on May 31st every year to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use and to promote policies that reduce tobacco consumption.

- RAYEES AHMAD KUMAR

At union and state levels, multiple legislations have been created to check the unabated use of tobacco and other deleterious and noxious products. But in public places like hospitals, hotels and restaurants, educational institutions, public transport and playing fields, the reckless and persistent use of tobacco and other unhealthy products is most concerning as well as worrying. In public transport, drivers and conductors are seen smoking, thoughtlessly and irresponsibly not considering about it's ill-effects and adverse impacts. Going back to the history of tobacco, it is asserted that the Christopher Columbus along with his companions, while landing on Tobago island in 1492, found the local people using tobacco leaves for pleasure. Since then the habit of smoking has spread all over the world, and it has assumed the shape of an industry but at the cost of human health. Research ers have come up with some astonishing facts, according to them tobacco smoke contains over 4000 chemicals, out of these 43 are carcinogenic ie cancer causing, which include some chemicals like polycyclic hydrocarbons. It also contains ammonia, formaldehyde and oxides of carbon which are thought to be cellular irritants. Carbon monoxide, one of the dangerous culprits reducing oxygen carrying capacity of haemoglobin is also found in tobacco. However the major component, most harmful and affecting t