Smoking

Introduction: Why should you care about smoking?

Smoking is not just a personal choice; it is a serious health issue affecting millions of Africans. According to the world health organization (WHO), over 146,000 people in Africa die from tobacco-related diseases every year. Yet, smoking remains common, with many people unaware of the full dangers. In many African communities, smoking is seen as a social activity, especially among the youth. Whether it’s cigarettes, cigars, shisha (hookah), or chewing tobacco, the truth is clear, tobacco kills.

What is smoking?

Smoking is the act of inhaling and exhaling smoke from burning plant material. The most commonly smoked substance is tobacco, which contains over 7,000 chemicals, many of which are toxic. At least 69 of these chemicals are known to cause cancer.

In Africa, people smoke for different reasons. Some for pleasure, others as a habit, and some because they believe it relieves stress. But regardless of the reason, smoking is dangerous and can lead to life-threatening diseases.

Is there a safe way to smoke?

The simple answer is no. Whether you smoke cigarettes, cigars, shisha, or chew tobacco, it is still harmful. Even e-cigarettes (vapes) contain harmful chemicals that can damage your body over time.

Even if you do not smoke but are around people who do, you are still at risk. Second-hand smoke (inhaling smoke from others) is just as dangerous as smoking itself.

How common is smoking in Africa?

  • In South Africa, 29% of men and 7% of women smoke regularly.
  • In Nigeria, over 4.5 million adults are smokers.
  • In Ghana, tobacco use is less common but is increasing among young people due to shisha smoking.
  • The WHO estimates that tobacco use in Africa is expected to increase by 40% by 2030 if preventive measures are not taken.

Smoking-related illnesses are a growing concern, but many Africans are not fully aware of the dangers.

What are the effects of smoking on the body?

Smoking affects almost every part of your body, leading to severe and sometimes irreversible damage. Let’s look at how:

Overall health and cancer risk

Smoking weakens your immune system, making you more likely to fall sick. It also increases the risk of many cancers, including:

  • Lung cancer (20 times more likely in smokers)
  • Mouth and throat cancer
  • Cervical cancer (common in women)
  • Liver and kidney cancer

Effects on the lungs

The lungs are one of the worst-affected organs. Smoking damages the airways and increases the risk of:

  • Chronic cough and breathing problems
  • Asthma attacks
  • Lung cancer (leading cause of death among smokers)
  • Tuberculosis (TB) (smoking weakens lung defense against infections)

Children who live with smokers are more likely to develop pneumonia, bronchitis, and asthma.

Effects on the heart and blood vessels

Nicotine (the addictive substance in tobacco) makes blood vessels narrow and hardens arteries, leading to:

  • High blood pressure
  • Heart attack and stroke
  • Poor circulation, which can cause limb amputations

Effects on the brain

Smoking affects mental health and brain function, leading to:

  • Increased risk of stroke
  • Memory loss and dementia
  • Higher chances of anxiety and depression

Effects on reproductive health

In men, smoking can cause impotence (weak erection), and in women, it can lead to:

  • Miscarriage and stillbirths
  • Low birth weight babies
  • Fertility problems

Effects on the skin and appearance Smoking ages you faster by:

  • Causing wrinkles and dry skin
  • Making teeth yellow and leading to tooth decay
  • Causing hair loss and premature balding

Can these effects be prevented?

Yes! Quitting smoking reduces these risks and improves your health, no matter how long you have been smoking. The benefits of quitting include:

  • After 20 minutes: Your blood pressure drops.
  • After 24 hours: The risk of a heart attack begins to decrease.
  • After 2 weeks to 3 months: Breathing improves, and circulation increases.
  • After 1 year: The risk of heart disease is cut in half.
  • After 10 years: The risk of lung cancer is reduced by half.

How can you quit smoking?

Quitting smoking is not easy, but it is possible. Here are some tips:

  • Set a quit date: Choose a day and prepare for it.
  • Avoid triggers: Stay away from places or people that tempt you to smoke.
  • Get support: Talk to family, friends, or a doctor for help.
  • Use nicotine replacement therapy (NRT): Some patches, gum, or medications can help reduce cravings.

Stay active: Exercise and drink lots of water to flush out toxins.