Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) experts are showing their support for World No Tobacco Day, an initiative by the World Health Organization (WHO) that aims to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use and promote policies to reduce consumption. Tobacco remains a significant health concern globally, as it is a leading cause of non-communicable diseases and death due to the harmful chemicals present in tobacco products. This year’s theme for World No Tobacco Day 2024 is ‘Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference,’ focusing on preventing the targeted marketing of tobacco products to the youth.
Various methods of tobacco consumption exist, including smoke inhalation through cigarettes, pipes, and cigars, as well as waterpipe smoking, electronic cigarettes, and smokeless tobacco. Nicotine, present in all forms of tobacco, can lead to addiction and numerous health issues. WHO reports that tobacco use is a major risk factor for cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, cancer, and other chronic conditions, claiming over 8 million lives annually. Low- and middle-income countries are particularly affected by tobacco-related deaths, as they are often targeted by aggressive marketing and interference from the tobacco industry.
Dr. Sohaila Cheema, assistant dean for Institute for Population Health (IPH) at WCM-Q, highlights the alarming increase in tobacco use among youth worldwide, with an estimated 37 million youth aged 13-15 using tobacco products. The introduction of newer products like e-cigarettes, snuff, and heated tobacco products has raised concerns, as they appeal to young people. The tobacco industry’s marketing tactics, such as packaging tobacco in candy-flavored products and targeting schools and young adults, are contributing to the rise in youth tobacco consumption.
Dr. Ziyad Mahfoud, a professor of research in population health sciences at WCM-Q, warns about the misconceptions surrounding shisha smoking, which is often seen as less harmful than cigarette smoking. However, shisha smoking poses significant health risks, including exposure to high levels of carbon monoxide, heavy metals, and carcinogens that can lead to chronic diseases. Research has shown that shisha smoking can introduce more toxicants and carcinogens than cigarette smoking, and the long duration of a shisha session can increase the intake of harmful substances, amplifying health risks. Additionally, he notes that electronic cigarettes and vaping products also come with health risks, as users have reported complications from the liquid inside the device and even device explosions.
