Every day, between 82,000 and 99,000 children and adolescents worldwide start smoking, according to a World Bank report. In India alone, over 50,000 children take up smoking daily. This alarming trend underscores the urgency of the 2024 World No Tobacco Day theme: “Protecting children from tobacco industry interference.” Children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of tobacco. Studies show that most tobacco users begin their habit before the age of 18, a critical period when the brain is especially susceptible to addiction. Recent research indicates that even a single cigarette can prime a child’s brain for nicotine addiction. Moreover, chewable forms of tobacco deliver nicotine three to four times more than cigarettes, making them even more addictive.
Developed nations have seen a significant reduction in smoking rates due to increased awareness and stringent regulations. However, in developing countries, tobacco companies have exploited vulnerable populations through aggressive marketing strategies. These companies use direct, indirect, and surrogate marketing tactics, often glamorising their products to appeal to the youth. This year’s World No Tobacco Day aims to counter these tactics by raising awareness and advocating for stronger protections for children.
Exposure to smoking in the family, peer pressure, curiosity, easy access to tobacco products, and aggressive marketing are major factors that lead children to start smoking. Historical portrayals of smoking in movies and indirect promotions through sponsorship of sports and other events have also contributed to normalising smoking among the youth. Quitting tobacco is notoriously difficult due to the physiological and behavioural dependence on nicotine, which is considered more addictive than cocaine and heroin. Nicotine replacement therapy and various drugs can address physical dependency, but behavioural therapy is crucial for long-term success. Regular counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy, and strategies to manage temptations and cues are integral to treatment.
Beyond medical interventions, fostering mental resilience and emotional well-being is essential in preventing tobacco addiction. The modern fast-paced world brings constant stress, exacerbated by unhealthy competition and comparison. Addressing these pressures through spiritual practices, such as meditation, yoga, and physical activity, can promote a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Meditation enhances self-control and increases enjoyment in everyday life, while yoga works holistically to strengthen the immune system and calm the mind. Physical activities not only boost energy and youthfulness but also sharpen mental faculties and improve self-image.
The metaphor of a bird trusting its wings rather than the branch it sits on is apt for today’s youth. Developing inner strength and resilience is crucial to navigating life’s challenges without resorting to harmful habits. Understanding and integrating spiritual teachings from an early age can foster a healthy body, mind, and soul, providing a stable foundation for lifelong well-being. World No Tobacco Day serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing battle against tobacco addiction. By protecting children from the tobacco industry’s manipulative tactics and promoting holistic approaches to well-being, we can create a healthier future for the next generation.