Tobacco belongs to the nightshade family and is cultivated for its dried leaves. The plant, growing 1–3 metres tall, produces broad leaves that are dried, processed, and manufactured into cigars, cigarettes, and chewing products. These forms of tobacco are lethal to human health and are linked to severe medical and social consequences.

Tobacco use dates back to 1492 when Christopher Columbus discovered that natives of Tobago Island used dried leaves for pleasure. Since then, its consumption has spread worldwide. However, what was once seen as a pleasure has now become a global health crisis.

Chemical Composition & Toxicity

Cigarettes contain nearly 4,000 chemicals, of which 43 are carcinogenic. These include: Polycyclic hydrocarbons (cancer-causing agents). Ammonia (causes cellular irritation). Formaldehyde (toxic chemical used for preservation). Oxides of nitrogen (respiratory irritants). Carbon monoxide (reduces oxygen-carrying capacity of blood). Nicotine (addictive substance that affects the nervous system). Tar (causes lung cancer)
Nicotine, though used agriculturally as an insecticide and in limited medical applications, is primarily harmful, making people dependent, irritable, and prone to diseases.

Major Health Hazards

Heart Diseases:- Increases risk of atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in blood vessels). Causes peripheral artery disease (PAD) due to narrowed arteries. Leads to strokes and heart attacks
Lung Damage:- Smoking is responsible for 90% of lung cancer deaths (CDC report). Increases risk of COPD, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. Triggers asthma attacks. Smokers are 25 times more likely to die from lung cancer
Fertility Issues:-Women: disrupts hormones, reduces chances of pregnancy. Men: increases risk of erectile dysfunction and poor sperm quality
Weakened Immunity:- Makes the body more vulnerable to infections and chronic illnesses
Vision Problems:- Increases risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. Can cause glaucoma, dry eyes, and diabetic retinopathy

Oral & Dental Issues

Smokers have twice the risk of gum disease. Symptoms: swollen gums, bleeding, loose teeth, sensitivity. Stains teeth and reduces ability to taste/smell

Skin & Hair Damage

Causes premature ageing, wrinkles, and skin cancer (especially lips). Leads to hair loss, balding, and unpleasant odor
Cancer Risks Beyond Lungs:- Pancreatic cancer (20–30% linked to smoking). Bladder cancer (3× higher risk). Stomach cancer (especially near oesophagus). Mouth, throat, oesophageal, kidney, cervical, liver, colon cancers. Acute myeloid leukaemia
Impact on Others & Society Passive smoking harms non-smokers, especially children, causing coughing, sneezing, and respiratory problems. Environmental pollution increases due to cigarette smoke. Economic burden on families and healthcare systems. Addiction leads to loss of dignity, unhygienic lifestyle, and poor quality of life.
Awareness & Global Observance

Every year on May 31st, World No Tobacco Day is observed across the globe. Schools, colleges, and public organizations conduct campaigns, seminars, and rallies to raise awareness about the devastating impacts of smoking.
Tobacco is not just a personal choice but a public health threat. From damaging the lungs, heart, and reproductive systems to causing numerous cancers, its effects are devastating. It ruins not only the life of the smoker but also the lives of passive smokers and the environment.
As responsible citizens, we must educate youth, reduce tobacco consumption, and actively participate in anti-tobacco campaigns to build a healthier society.

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