On May 31st, the world observes No Tobacco Day to raise awareness about the hazardous effects of tobacco and urge people to quit smoking. The article highlights the reasons and benefits of quitting smoking, including improved overall health, prevention of diseases such as lung cancer and COPD, and positive impacts on financial and environmental aspects. Dr. Gopi Krishna Yedlapati, a senior consultant in Pulmonology, emphasizes that the body's healing process after quitting depends on the history and intensity of smoking.
World No Tobacco Day: Unveiling the Dangers of Smoking
Introduction:
World No Tobacco Day, observed annually on May 31st, serves as a global platform to raise awareness about the severe health consequences of tobacco use and advocate for policies that protect non-smokers and smokers alike. This day is a reminder of the devastating impact that smoking has on individuals, communities, and society as a whole.
Background:
Tobacco use has been prevalent throughout history, dating back to ancient times. However, the widespread cultivation and consumption of tobacco began in the 16th century, with the advent of the transatlantic slave trade and European colonization. Over the years, tobacco became a lucrative industry, but its health hazards were often overlooked.
In the 20th century, scientific research began to establish the undeniable link between smoking and various health problems, including lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cardiovascular disease. Despite this mounting evidence, tobacco companies continued to promote their products aggressively, targeting young and vulnerable populations.
Thirdhand Smoke:
In addition to secondhand smoke, which involves non-smokers being exposed to smoke from cigarettes or cigars, there is also the issue of thirdhand smoke. This residue remains on clothing, furniture, and other surfaces after someone has smoked. It can be harmful to both smokers and non-smokers, especially children and infants.
Benefits of Quitting Smoking:
Quitting smoking offers numerous benefits for physical, financial, and environmental well-being:
Dr. Gopi Krishna Yedlapati's Perspective:
Dr. Yedlapati, a senior consultant in Pulmonology, stresses the importance of quitting smoking for improving overall health and preventing future illnesses. He notes that the body's ability to heal after quitting depends on the individual's smoking history and the intensity of their habit.
Top 5 FAQs:
1. What are the major health risks associated with smoking?
2. Is it possible to quit smoking and reverse the damage caused to my lungs?
3. How long does it take for my body to recover from smoking?
4. What are the recommended quitting methods?
5. How can I protect myself from secondhand and thirdhand smoke?
Conclusion:
World No Tobacco Day is a vital opportunity to highlight the devastating consequences of smoking and encourage individuals to quit. By understanding the risks and embracing healthy lifestyle choices, we can work towards a smoke-free society and protect our health, our communities, and our planet.
The much-awaited festival of Diwali is just around the corner and preparations are already underway. According to the 2025 calendar, the Lakshmi Puja Muhurat for Diwali has been announced to be on October 20. This auspicious day brings with it an opportunity for families to gather and worship Goddess Lakshmi for blessings of prosperity and good luck. The five-day festival, beginning with Dhanteras and ending with Bhai Dooj, each day holds a significant spiritual meaning and is eagerly awaited by devotees.
Just days before the festival of lights, Delhi-NCR was brought to a standstill as severe traffic congestion struck the region. The festive rush, combined with ongoing roadwork and market zones bustling with Diwali shoppers, resulted in major delays and gridlock across the city. In response, the Delhi Traffic Police issued a strong advisory and took several measures to handle the traffic overload and prioritize safety. As the weekend and Diwali shopping continue, commuters are reminded to plan their journeys carefully to avoid getting stuck in the chaos.
As festive celebrations pick up pace in the national capital, Delhi Traffic Police is urging people to plan their travel in advance due to widespread traffic disruptions. Ongoing road repairs and broken sewer lines have added to the traffic woes, prompting the police to cancel leaves and deploy personnel to handle the growing Diwali rush. Many major intersections have experienced bottlenecks, and motorists are advised to follow diversion routes and check live updates before stepping out.
Diwali, the festival of lights, celebrates good over evil and the victory of light over darkness. This year, Diwali falls on October 20, with Lakshmi Puja being the main ritual dedicated to Maa Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. The Amavasya Tithi, which marks the new moon, is considered the most auspicious time for the Puja and falls between 3.44 pm on October 20 and 5.54 pm on October 21. Diwali is celebrated across India and in many countries with Indian-origin communities, with families coming together to light diyas, offer prayers, and prepare sweets and offerings for the goddess. Different cities have their own auspicious timings for the Puja, with Delhi's Pradosh Kaal being the most significant.
Union minister Nitin Gadkari faced accusations of conflict of interest from the ethanol blending policy, with allegations that his sons' company was benefiting financially. However, Gadkari has vehemently denied these claims, stating that the production of ethanol only accounted for less than 0.5% of his sons' company's supply. He adds that his efforts to promote alternative, cleaner fuels are to address the country's high fuel import costs and reduce pollution. The minister also criticizes the Congress' claims, calling them baseless and an attempt to discredit the government's policies.
A devoted fan of the Loch Ness Monster, Eoin O Faodhagain, has captured footage of a potential sighting on the Visit Inverness Loch Ness webcam. The video shows what appears to be a long, anaconda-like neck emerging from the water, which Mr O Faodhagain describes as being "thick as a man's thigh". This isn't the first time he has spotted something unusual on the webcam, as he claims a recent sighting is very similar to one he had earlier this year. He also shared pictures from a September sighting that showed two humps in the water.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 31,000 for its employees for Diwali. This applies to all eligible BMC officers, teachers, and staff of private primary and secondary schools, as well as shikshan sevaks and employees of teacher training institutes. In addition, community health volunteers will receive a special gift of Rs 14,000 and kindergarten teachers and helpers will receive Rs 5,000. Maharashtra's Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Ministers have also extended Diwali greetings to all BMC officers and employees.
A 15-year-old boy tragically died after being electrocuted at a parking area designated for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's public meeting in Kurnool district. The boy was carrying an iron pipe to use as a flagpole, which accidentally touched a high-tension power line, leading to his death. The incident occurred just before the PM's meeting and police have registered a case. This news was first reported by the auto-generated syndicate wire service and no changes have been made to the original report.
A private bus traveling from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur caught fire, resulting in the death of 19 people. The Chief Minister has expressed grief and ordered for assistance to be provided to the victims and injured. The cause of the fire is believed to be a short circuit. Helpline numbers have been released and the army has been deployed at the scene.
A devastating accident occurred on the Jaisalmer-Jodhpur Highway in Rajasthan when an AC sleeper bus caught fire. Witnesses recounted the horrifying scene of passengers jumping out of the moving bus to escape the flames. The bus, carrying 57 passengers, was turned to ashes and officials fear that the death toll may exceed 15. Relief efforts are ongoing, with ambulance services creating a green corridor to quickly transport the injured to advanced treatment facilities.