World No Tobacco Day 2024 Theme: Preventions, Campaigns, And Health Insurance

Establishing World No Tobacco Day in 1978 was an attempt to stop the global nicotine pandemic. World No Tobacco Day is celebrated to raise awareness and encourage people to avoid using tobacco.  "Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference," the theme for 2024, talks about how young people are using tobacco and nicotine more. In the world, tobacco smoking is the second greatest cause of death, and many deaths are the result of young people's habits. Social media, TV shows, Advertisements, Cartoons, etc. which portray smoking as glamorous, introduce young people, especially those between the ages of 13 and 15, to tobacco and nicotine products. Consequently, 38 million youth currently utilise nicotine products. According to research, people who watch smoking in the media have a threefold higher likelihood of switching to vaping.

Nine out of ten smokers attempt their first cigarette before turning eighteen, and more than two-thirds develop an addiction. These are alarming numbers. Given that tobacco use is associated with over 20 distinct forms of cancer. Eighty per cent of smokers reside in low- and middle-income nations, where it is frequently difficult to get healthcare and information about the risks of smoking.

The campaign places a strong emphasis on prevention and education, preparing youth to fend off peer pressure while also learning about the risks associated with tobacco use. Parents, communities, and schools play crucial roles in this educational endeavor. More severe laws are required to prevent tobacco products from being marketed to minors and to limit how smoking is portrayed in the media.

On World No Tobacco Day in 2024, everyone is urged to take action by raising awareness, promoting legislation, and supporting programs that educate the public to shield future generations from the negative consequences of tobacco and nicotine.[1][2]

Effects of Tobacco

In India, tobacco usage presents serious issues related to the environment and health. It is connected to several illnesses and ailments:

• Cancer: In India, tobacco use is the primary cause of 50% of cancer cases in males and 20% in women; the oral cavity is severely affected.

• Cardiovascular Disease: The risk of stroke and heart disease is greatly increased.

• Diabetes: People who smoke have an increased chance of getting type 2 diabetes.

• Chronic Lung Disease: Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are prevalent among smokers.

• Stroke: Smokers have a far increased risk of stroke.

• Infertility: Both men and women who smoke may experience infertility.
  

• Blindness: Age-related macular degeneration and cataracts are both significantly increased by smoking.

• Tuberculosis (TB): Smoking impairs immunity, making a person more vulnerable to TB.

Regarding the effects on the environment: -

• Deforestation: Growing tobacco causes a great deal of deforestation.

• Litter and Pollution: One of the main causes of both is cigarette butts.

• Forest Fires: Cigarette waste can start wildfires in forests.

According to the WHO, India is the world's second-largest consumer of tobacco products, with over 275 million smokers. In India, tobacco smoking causes about 3,500 deaths every day, or more than a million deaths a year. Furthermore, 35% of tobacco smokers worldwide reside in India, underscoring the tobacco industry's profound effects on the nation's environment and public health.[1]

Preventions From Tobacco Consumption

Several useful tactics are employed to lower smoking and secondhand smoke exposure:

1. Smoke-Free Policies: Limiting exposure to secondhand smoke is achieved by outlawing smoking in public areas.

2. Higher Tobacco Taxes: Taxing tobacco goods makes them more expensive, which deters consumers from purchasing them.

3. Public health education: Initiatives educate the public about the risks of smoking and the advantages of giving it up via TV, social media, and other channels.

4. Counseling and Support: To assist smokers deal with cravings and triggers, counseling offers advice and emotional support.

5. Medication: Medication can lessen the symptoms of withdrawal and facilitate stopping smoking.

Combining these strategies improves the likelihood of successfully stopping smoking, which in turn enhances public health. InsuranceDekho helps customers select the best plan suited for their health that will fit their budget.[1]

No Tobacco Day - Awareness Campaigns and Programs

No Tobacco Day is observed globally to raise awareness and discourage tobacco usage. India has taken action to raise public awareness and deter tobacco usage. The nation of India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has started the "National Tobacco Control Program."

The National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP) of India, introduced under the 11th Five-Year Plan, aims to reduce tobacco usage and health risks. It was initially implemented in 42 districts and 21 states, with a 5% decrease in consumption in its initial years. Due to the program's success, it has grown and gained more sway over public health issues, however, fewer people are now impacted by it. According to the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS), the program has affected up to 81 lakh (8.1 million) people. The program's success has contributed to its success in combating tobacco-related health issues.

National Tobacco Testing Laboratories (NTTLs) for the program are in India. Guwahati, Noida, and Mumbai are home to the NTTLs. The Apex Laboratory is located in Noida.[2]

The aim of the World No Tobacco Day 2024 program

The initial goals of the National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP) were to:

• Raise awareness of the negative consequences of tobacco use.

• Lowering the amount of tobacco products produced and supplied.

• Make it the clause under "The Cigarette and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003" is implemented effectively.

• Assist individuals in giving up tobacco use.

• Encourage the WHO's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control to be implemented to help prevent and control tobacco use.

Main Thrust Areas

The following were the program's primary focus areas:

• Teachers, police officers, and social workers should all receive training.

• Activities related to information, education, and communication (IEC).

• Curriculum in Schools.

• Cooperation on village-level initiatives with the Panchayati Raj Institution.

• Establishing and maintaining facilities for quitting smoking, including district-level pharmaceutical treatment clinics.

Structures under NTCP

To assist with tobacco-related issues, the National Tobacco Control Program has three entities that function in various parts of the country. They are as follows:

• (NTCC) National Tobacco Control Cell- Central Level

• (STCC) State Tobacco Control Cell- State Level

• (DTCC) District Tobacco Control Cell- District level

Health Insurance for Tobacco Users

Smokers have a higher chance of developing heart disease, lung cancer, and respiratory problems. Due to this, the health insurance premiums for smokers are typically more expensive than those for non-smokers. Because smokers are more likely to require medical attention, insurance firms raise their premiums to cover these possible expenses.

As a result, if you are successful in stopping smoking, you may experience a decrease in insurance expenses down the road because insurers may lower their rates for former smokers. Due to the increased health risks associated with smoking, smokers pay more for health insurance. Giving up smoking can save these expenses and enhance general health.

The top health insurance companies for smokers are Care Health Insurance, Niva Bupa, HDFC Ergo, and ICICI Lombard.

For more details read: https://www.insurancedekho.com/health-insurance/health-insurance-for-smokers 

Conclusion

World No Tobacco Day serves as an important reminder of the major health concerns connected to tobacco use and smoking. In addition to improving your health, giving up tobacco use may also result in cheaper insurance expenses. We at InsuranceDekho encourage you on your path to a smoke-free, healthier lifestyle. Remember, living a healthier lifestyle results in increased well-being and cost savings. Together, let's strive toward a more promising tobacco-free future.

References

[1] https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-no-tobacco-day/2024

[2] https://ntcp.mohfw.gov.in/