Tobacco use, whether smoking or chewing, is one of the leading causes of preventable death in India. It causes cancers of the mouth, throat and lungs, heart disease, stroke and lung disease. The good news is that quitting at any age brings health benefits. Here is how to get help.
The scale of the problem
According to the Global Adult Tobacco Survey 2 (2016-17), about 28.6 percent of adults in India used tobacco in some form. Smokeless tobacco like gutkha, khaini and zarda is very common. WHO, led by Director General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has repeatedly called tobacco one of the biggest public health threats and urges countries to offer quitting support.
Free help in India
- **National Tobacco Quit Line:** call the toll free number 1800-11-2356 for free counselling in several languages. This number is printed on tobacco packs.
- **mCessation:** a free text message based programme of the Ministry of Health and WHO. You can register through the number listed on the National Tobacco Control Programme website and get tips and motivation on your phone.
- **Tobacco Cessation Centres:** many government hospitals and medical colleges run centres where doctors and counsellors help people quit.
Steps to quit
- **Pick a quit date** within the next two weeks and tell family and friends.
- **Know your triggers,** such as tea breaks, stress or certain friends, and plan what to do instead.
- **Remove tobacco** products, lighters and ashtrays from home, office and car.
- **Handle cravings:** cravings usually last a few minutes. Drink water, chew sugar free gum, take a walk or do deep breathing.
- **Ask a doctor** about nicotine replacement therapy, such as gum or patches, or other medicines that can help.
- **Stay active** and eat healthy meals to manage weight and mood.
- **Do not give up** after a slip. Many people need several attempts before quitting for good.
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Benefits of quitting
Within days, breathing and the sense of taste and smell begin to improve. Over months and years, the risk of heart disease, stroke and many cancers falls. Quitting also protects family members from second hand smoke and saves money.
Laws that help
The Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, 2003 (COTPA) bans smoking in public places, bans sale to minors and near schools, and requires health warnings on packs. E cigarettes were banned in India in 2019.
Bottom line
Quitting tobacco is hard but possible. Call 1800-11-2356, use free services and ask your doctor for support.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult a qualified doctor before starting any treatment or if you have symptoms.
Source / स्रोत: National Tobacco Control Programme, MoHFW, WHO, Tobacco
