If you ever wanted a reason to stop smoking, this is it - Medshield Movement

If you ever wanted a reason to stop smoking, this is it

31 May is World No Tobacco Day – a day that was created in 1987 to draw global attention to the tobacco epidemic and the preventable death and disease it causes. Here’s what you need to know today.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that tobacco growing and production leads to long term, global ecological harms and climate change, impacting food security. Currently, tobacco is grown in over 125 countries as a cash crop, over an estimated area of four-million hectares, which is an area larger than the country of Rwanda. The harmful effects of the cultivation on the environment are particularly apparent in low- and middle-income countries, states the WHO.

Outside of the negative environmental impacts, we also know now that smoking tobacco is particularly harmful to your health. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that smoking causes cancer, heart disease, stroke, lung diseases, diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Smoking also increases risk for tuberculosis, certain eye diseases and problems of the immune system, including rheumatoid arthritis.

The unexpected side effects of smoking tobacco

The American Lung Association reports that smoking is responsible for many other diseases and health issues not typically mentioned. These are:

– Blindness

– Type-2 Diabetes

– Erectile Dysfunction

– Ectopic Pregnancy

– Cleft lip and palate

– and Gum disease

We know that quitting smoking is not easy. It is, after all, an addictive substance that’s available on nearly every street corner in South Africa. But help is out there. Speak to your medical doctor for the best way to proceed – and how you can build a sustainable healthy lifestyle.

Go Back

Similar Articles

What exactly is hypertension and how to prevent it?

Read More

Struggling to fall pregnant? Here are next steps and options.

Read More

Signs and Symptoms of Malaria

Read More

Why Scheduled Date Nights Are Essential for Maintaining a Healthy Relationship

Read More

How To Do Deep Belly Breathing – And Why It’s Good For You

Read More

The Best Yoga Poses for Weight Loss

Read More

I’m Pre-Diabetic – What Can I Do To Prevent Diabetes?

Read More

Why You Should Go For Your Pap Smear Test

Read More

DISCLAIMER: The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content may contain information related to exercise, fitness, diet, and nutrition, which is intended solely for your personal use and informational purposes. Before commencing any exercise, fitness, diet, or nutrition regimen, especially if you are pregnant or have pre-existing health conditions, you should consult with a physician. Nothing on this site should be construed as medical advice or diagnosis. For any symptoms or health concerns, please consult a healthcare professional