Despite decades of awareness campaigns and warnings, tobacco use remains a major public health threat, with e-cigarettes and vaping contributing to the problem. According to a 2022 WHO study, at least 37 million young people worldwide use tobacco, with the popularity of e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches on the rise. These products, marketed as a way to help smokers quit, have instead normalized the act of smoking, particularly among younger generations. This poses a grave threat as tobacco use is linked to various cancers, including lung cancer, the most prevalent form of cancer in India.
Electronic Cigarettes, Vaping, and the Global Tobacco Crisis: A Grave Threat to Public Health
Despite decades of public awareness campaigns and warnings, tobacco use remains a major public health threat worldwide. In recent years, the rise of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and vaping has added a new dimension to this problem.
The Lure of E-Cigarettes
E-cigarettes have been marketed as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, with claims that they help smokers quit. However, studies have shown that this is not the case. In fact, e-cigarettes have become a gateway to nicotine addiction for many young people.
The popularity of e-cigarettes among youth is particularly concerning. According to a 2022 World Health Organization (WHO) study, at least 37 million young people worldwide use tobacco, with the popularity of e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches on the rise. These products have normalized the act of smoking, especially among younger generations.
The Health Risks of Tobacco Use
Tobacco use is linked to a wide range of health problems, including:
E-cigarettes have not been shown to be any safer than traditional cigarettes. In fact, some studies have suggested that they may even be more harmful.
The Impact of World No Tobacco Day
World No Tobacco Day is observed every year on May 31st to raise awareness of the dangers of tobacco use and to advocate for policies to reduce its use. This year's theme is "Protect youth from industry manipulation and prevent them from nicotine addiction."
The WHO is calling on governments to:
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. Are e-cigarettes safer than traditional cigarettes?
No, e-cigarettes have not been shown to be safer than traditional cigarettes.
2. Do e-cigarettes help smokers quit?
No, e-cigarettes have not been shown to be effective for smoking cessation.
3. What are the health risks of e-cigarettes?
E-cigarettes have been linked to a variety of health risks, including: lung damage, heart disease, and cancer.
4. What can be done to reduce tobacco use?
Governments can implement comprehensive tobacco control measures, including bans on tobacco advertising and promotion, increased tobacco taxation, and support for smokers who want to quit.
5. How can I protect my child from the harmful effects of tobacco?
Talk to your child about the dangers of tobacco use, encourage them to avoid tobacco products, and set a good example by being smoke-free.
Join CBBC's Naomi Wilkinson and wildlife biologist Lizzie Daly in this educational Live Lesson, in collaboration with Blue Planet Live. Together, they delve into the importance of a healthy marine ecosystem and the threats facing our oceans, such as plastics and overfishing. With a special appearance from Steve Backshall, this programme also highlights the role of sharks in understanding ecosystems and how human actions can harm their survival. Designed for Key Stage 2/2nd Level curricula, this lesson includes a teacher guide and student activity sheets for a comprehensive learning experience.
In honor of International Women's Day 2025, Google dedicated a special doodle to celebrate the contributions of women in STEM fields. Despite progress towards gender equality, women continue to remain underrepresented in STEM, making up just 29% of the global workforce. The doodle highlights the groundbreaking achievements of women in space exploration, ancient discoveries, and lab research, while also emphasizing the importance of recognizing and supporting women in STEM. This International Women's Day serves as a reminder of the countless ways in which women have shaped and continue to shape the world through their contributions to science and technology.
A new study analyzing data from prestigious institutions like Harvard and Yale challenges common perceptions about the religious makeup of American college students. Contrary to popular belief, the study found that the biggest divide in religious behavior is not between elite and non-elite institutions, but between political ideologies. The study also found that there are minimal religious differences between selective and non-selective schools, with the main exceptions being higher percentages of Christian and Jewish students at non-selective schools. This study sheds light on the complex relationship between religion and education in the United States.
This article discusses the importance of proper diet planning during the month of Ramadan for sustained energy levels and stable blood sugar levels. It highlights the need to incorporate complex carbohydrates, protein-rich foods, healthy fats, and hydrating foods into suhoor and iftar meals. Tips for breaking the fast wisely and healthy snacking options are also provided. Additionally, the article emphasizes the importance of hydration and suggests incorporating infused water options for digestion and hydration.
March 3 is observed as World Wildlife Day every year to bring attention to the importance of protecting endangered species. This year's theme, 'Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet', highlights the need for sustainable measures to protect our diverse wildlife. The United Nations General Assembly declared this day in 2013, coinciding with the signing of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). This international agreement, with 185 parties, aims to regulate and control the trade of endangered species to ensure their survival. Three appendices list the species under different categories based on their level of protection needed, with stricter rules for Appendix I species such as the Indian star tortoise.
India celebrates National Science Day every year on February 28 to honor the discovery of the Raman Effect by Sir C.V. Raman. The theme for this year's celebration, "Advancing Science for a Sustainable Future," highlights the role of scientific research in tackling global issues and encourages discussion on technological advancements. By promoting scientific awareness and inspiring the next generation of scientists and innovators, National Science Day strengthens India's commitment to scientific excellence and sustainable progress.
As the seasons change, our bodies are exposed to fluctuating temperatures and humidity levels that can weaken our immune systems and make us more susceptible to respiratory infections. These shifts in weather can create the ideal conditions for viruses to thrive and spread, leading to common illnesses like colds, coughs, and viral fevers. With insights from Dr Meenakshi Jain, a Senior Director of Internal Medicine, we explore how these seasonal changes affect our health and what steps we can take to protect ourselves. From boosting our immunity through diet and exercise, to practicing good hygiene and getting vaccinated, these preventative measures can help us stay healthy during seasonal transitions.
On the recent National Science Day, we commemorate the discovery of the Raman Effect and celebrate the contributions of scientists like Dr. Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman. To uphold the spirit of innovation, here are some inspiring quotes that continue to motivate scientists, students, and enthusiasts. Meanwhile in Srinagar, a cold wave and light snowfall have hit Jammu and Kashmir, reminding us of the wonders of nature.
India celebrates National Science Day on February 28 every year in honor of Sir CV Raman's groundbreaking discovery of the Raman Effect in 1928, which revolutionized the field of physics and earned him the Nobel Prize. This year, the theme is ‘Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science & Innovation for Viksit Bharat’, highlighting the importance of science and innovation in India's development. The first National Science Day was celebrated in 1987, and since then it has become an important occasion to acknowledge the contributions of Indian scientists in various fields.
Skywatchers are in for a celestial treat this week as seven planets - Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Venus, Neptune, Mercury, and Saturn - will be visible in the evening sky. This phenomenon, known as a 'planetary parade', will offer a rare chance to see all seven planets at once until 2040. While four planets will be visible to the naked eye, a telescope will be needed to spot the other two. With a narrow window of just a few minutes after sunset to view them, clear skies and a good vantage point on the horizon will offer the best opportunity to witness this spectacular event.