Explained: What Are The Long-Term Consequences Of Chronic Tobacco Use And Smoking

Chronic smoking, characterized by long-term and continuous tobacco use, poses a significant public health challenge globally. In India, smoking is a prevalent habit with alarming implications for the population. The country grapples with high numbers of individuals impacted by the devastating consequences of chronic smoking.

The available data sheds light on the extent of this health burden, urging the implementation of effective public health initiatives and smoking cessation programs.

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The economic impact of chronic smoking is substantial, with healthcare costs and productivity losses amounting to billions of dollars each year in India. This places a significant burden on individuals and the healthcare system alike. To combat the pervasive issue of chronic smoking, comprehensive tobacco control measures, effective smoking cessation programs, and robust public awareness campaigns are necessary.

Chronic smoking, or long-term and continuous smoking, can have a significant impact on both the smoker's health and overall well-being.

Effects of chronic smoking

Increased risk of diseases: Smoking is a leading cause of preventable diseases and premature death worldwide. Chronic smoking is associated with a higher risk of developing various health conditions, including:

Cardiovascular diseases: Smoking damages the blood vessels and increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease.

Respiratory diseases: Long-term smoking can lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes conditions such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It also increases the risk of lung cancer.

Cancer: Smoking is the leading cause of preventable cancers, including lung, throat, mouth, esophageal, pancreatic, bladder, kidney, and cervical cancer, among others.

Respiratory infections: Smokers are more susceptible to respiratory infections like pneumonia and bronchitis due to impaired lung function and weakened immune system.

Increased risk of other diseases: Chronic smoking is linked to increased risk of diabetes, osteoporosis, compromised immune function, and reproductive health problems.

Reduced lung function: Smoking damages the lungs and airways, leading to decreased lung function over time. This can result in shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, and reduced physical endurance.

Premature aging: Smoking accelerates the aging process, causing premature wrinkles, sagging skin, and a dull complexion. It can also lead to hair loss and yellowing of teeth and nails.

Reduced fertility: Chronic smoking can impair fertility in both men and women. It increases the risk of infertility, miscarriages, premature birth, low birth weight, and developmental issues in babies.

Secondhand smoke effects: Chronic smokers not only harm themselves but also expose others to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke contains many harmful chemicals and can lead to respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and an increased risk of cancer in nonsmokers.

The Prolonged Toll of Smoking - Unveiling the Long-Term Consequences of Chronic Tobacco Use | Unsplash

Evidence shows that a person takes several failed attempts before they quit smoking. It is not an easy task, and it requires a lot of determination and effort. Some people think they can quit smoking easily any time but end up never doing it. It¡¯s not about your motivation, this is addiction and this is how it¡¯s going to affect you and here are some tips:

Find Your Motivation: The first step towards quitting smoking is to find your motivation. Ask yourself why you want to quit smoking. Whether it's for your health, your family, or your finances, having a strong motivation will help you stay on track when things get tough.

Set a Quit Date: Once you have found your motivation, set a quit date. Choose a date that gives you enough time to prepare and get ready. Mark it on your calendar and make sure you stick to it. Inform your family and friends, so you are committing to your words.

Get Support: Quitting smoking is not a journey you have to take alone. Get support from your family, friends, and healthcare professionals. Join a support group or find a quit buddy who can offer you encouragement and motivation. Initially stay away from people who encourage you to continue smoking. You are building your wings. You need to build yourself strong before you face such people.

Identify Your Triggers: Identify the situations or emotions that trigger your urge to smoke. Avoid them as much as possible or find alternative ways to cope with them. For example, if stress triggers your urge to smoke, try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation. Smoking can cause withdrawals which is wrongly perceived as stress at work and people continue the loop. Be aware of this.

Use Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT): Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) can help you manage your cravings and withdrawal symptoms. There are different types of NRT, including patches, gum, and lozenges. Consult with your healthcare professional to determine the right type and dosage for you based on your per day requirement of tobacco.

Stay Busy: Keep your mind and body occupied to distract yourself from the urge to smoke. Engage in activities that you enjoy, like exercise, reading, or spending time with friends.

Family & friends role: Respect the person¡¯s intension to quit. Avoid making jokes and luring them to smoke. You may say just one cigarette, it triggers entire relapse. Every failed attempt makes next attempt harder. Avoid fights, arguments or confrontations. Be there for them.

Stay Positive: Quitting smoking is not easy, and you may experience setbacks along the way. Don't beat yourself up over it. Stay positive and focused on your goal. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small they are.

The Prolonged Toll of Smoking - Unveiling the Long-Term Consequences of Chronic Tobacco Use | Unsplash

Quitting smoking is a challenging but rewarding journey. With the right mindset, support, and guidance, you can overcome the addiction and live a healthier, smoke-free life. If the journey becomes harder seek professional help so you are not rattling from the withdrawals. Use the above tips to help you on your journey towards quitting smoking and remember to stay positive and focused on your goal.

About the author: Dr. Harini Atturu is a Consultant in Psychiatry at CARE Hospitals Hyderabad. All views/opinions expressed in the article are of the author.