World Health Organization (WHO), all its global partners and independent organisations observe May 31 as World No Tobacco Day (WNTD). The day, as the name suggests, is dedicated to creating awareness about the effects of tobacco on human health. As per WHO, this annual campaign "is an opportunity to raise awareness on the harmful and deadly effects of tobacco use and second-hand smoke exposure, and to discourage the use of tobacco in any form." The global burden of tobacco smoking and its effects on health is a burning subject that requires to be addressed.  WHO says that tobacco smoking is the primary cause of lung cancer and is said to be responsible for over two-thirds of lung cancer deaths globally. Moreover, it is not just the first-hand smoking that is responsible, second-hand smoke exposure at home or in the workplace also increases the risk of lung cancer. The solution to this is to quitting smoking and shun tobacco. For that, it is important to raise more awareness about the health effects of tobacco.

World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) Theme

The theme for 2019 World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) is "tobacco and lung health," as per WHO. Not many people understand the link between tobacco and its lasting effects on lung health. Not just lung cancer but tobacco smoking is also the leading cause of the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Moreover, even Tuberculosis (TB) damages the lungs and reduces lung function, which is further worsened by tobacco smoking.

Significance of World No Tobacco Day

World No Tobacco Day looks at the importance of increasing awareness regarding ill-effects of Tobacco and the negative impact that tobacco has on people’s lung health, right from cancer to chronic respiratory disease. According to WHO the day also highlights the fundamental role lungs play for the health and well-being of all people. WHO says, "The campaign also serves as a call to action, advocating for effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption and engaging stakeholders across multiple sectors in the fight for tobacco control."

The effects of tobacco aren't just limited or as big as lung cancer, there are multiple effects of tobacco that not many people know of. It is important for all of us to do our bit to help people quit smoking.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 30, 2019 09:09 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).