Exposing the false allure of nicotine and tobacco.

(Baohatinh.vn) - Tobacco is still prevalent in daily life, therefore, raising awareness and changing behavior has been identified by the authorities in Ha Tinh as a crucial solution to combat tobacco smoke.

Cigarette smoke is still present in many places, from roadside cafes and market corners to workplaces and even within individual homes. Many people view smoking as a hard-to-break habit, a way to relieve stress, or a sign of maturity. However, behind these seemingly appealing sensations lie serious consequences for health, finances , and family happiness.

Tobacco is becoming deeply ingrained in our lives.

At roadside cafes in Ha Tinh , every morning, it's not uncommon to see many people casually smoking one cigarette after another amidst a smoky atmosphere. What's concerning is that women and children are often present around them. In fact, this situation isn't limited to public places; it's prevalent in many families as well. Ms. NTH (Phu Mau village, Loc Ha commune) shared: "My husband has been smoking for over 10 years. I've advised him to quit many times, but it's very difficult. The consequence is that our young child frequently suffers from coughs and sore throats from inhaling secondhand smoke."

At Ha Tinh Lung Hospital, many patients are being treated for illnesses related to long-term smoking. Mr. LVT (from Cam Xuyen commune) used to smoke an average of nearly a pack of cigarettes a day. As a result, he developed symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) such as: persistent cough with phlegm, frequent expectoration of thick phlegm, shortness of breath when exerting himself when climbing stairs or doing heavy work, wheezing, and chest tightness. “Before, I thought smoking a few cigarettes wouldn't hurt, but now that I'm sick, I realize how precious health is. There are nights when I can't sleep because of shortness of breath; I just wish I had quit sooner,” Mr. T. shared.

A CT scan of the lungs was performed on a patient who had been a long-time smoker.

Besides harming health, smoking also places a significant economic burden on many families. A person who smokes a pack of cigarettes a day can spend tens of millions of dong annually on tobacco, not including the cost of medical examinations and treatment for related illnesses. Importantly, secondhand smoke not only harms the smoker but also directly impacts those around them, especially children. Regularly inhaling secondhand smoke increases the risk of pneumonia, asthma, and other chronic respiratory diseases.

More worryingly, e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products have recently been infiltrating the youth market with their modern appearance, vibrant colors, and attractive flavors. Many students and young people are curious to use them, believing these products to be less harmful than traditional cigarettes. According to preliminary surveys in Ha Tinh province, the percentage of adults aged 15 and over who use tobacco products is over 13.7%; among those aware of e-cigarettes, those aged 15-24 account for 89%; and 1.7% of adults have used e-cigarettes at some point.

Smoking also causes health problems for those who inhale secondhand smoke, such as pneumonia and pleural effusion.

Mr. Le Chanh Thanh, Deputy Director of the Department of Health, emphasized: "The most dangerous aspect of tobacco is its 'false appeal.' Tobacco is often promoted as a symbol of sophistication, relaxation, or confidence, but in reality, it's a trap that leads people to become dependent on nicotine. Tobacco smoke contains thousands of toxic chemicals, many of which are carcinogenic, increasing the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, and many other dangerous illnesses. Many people mistakenly believe e-cigarettes are safer, but these products still contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance. In addition, they contain many chemicals that can seriously affect the lungs, cardiovascular system, and nervous system, especially in teenagers."

It can be said that the increasing infiltration of e-cigarettes into social life, especially among young people, has sounded an alarm about the unpredictable consequences that this type of tobacco product can bring. At the same time, it demands that tobacco harm prevention and control efforts be implemented more comprehensively and decisively to raise awareness and change behavior.

Ha Tinh province organized a parade to commemorate World Anti-Tobacco Day.

Mr. Le Chanh Thanh, Deputy Director of the Department of Health, stated: “To reduce the rate of tobacco use, especially e-cigarettes, the most important thing is to raise public awareness. Along with that, it is necessary to strengthen control over the sale of e-cigarettes on social media, and prevent deceptive advertising targeting young people. Local authorities need to integrate tobacco harm prevention activities into strategies, plans, programs, and projects, and include targets for reducing tobacco use in socio-economic development indicators for each period. Families and schools also need to play a core role in educating children and teenagers to stay away from tobacco and nicotine-containing products from an early age.”

World No Tobacco Day on May 31st, with the message "Unmasking the False Allure – Acting to Combat Nicotine and Tobacco Addiction," is not only a reminder of the harmful effects of tobacco but also an opportunity for everyone to reflect on their own lifestyle habits. A cigarette may burn out in just a few minutes, but its consequences can last for years. When someone decides to put out a cigarette today, they are protecting themselves, their family, and their community from the invisible dangers of tobacco smoke.

Source: https://baohatinh.vn/vach-tran-su-hap-dan-gia-tao-cua-nicotine-va-thuoc-la-post311504.html