Dr. Rishikesh Meena
Specialist Pulmonology,
Thumbay Hospital Fujairah
“World No Tobacco Day” is observed annually on May 31st to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use and to encourage individuals to lead healthier, tobacco-free lives. The theme for World No Tobacco Day 2026, is “Unmasking the Appeal: Countering Nicotine and Tobacco Addiction,” focuses on exposing the tactics used by the tobacco and nicotine industries to attract users, especially young people, through appealing packaging, flavors, advertising, and social media influence.
Tobacco use remains one of the leading preventable causes of disease and death worldwide. Every year more than 8 million peoples across the world, die of tobacco related diseases.
Smoking and other forms of tobacco consumption significantly increase the risk of respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and several types of cancer. In addition, secondhand smoke exposure poses serious health risks to family members, particularly children, pregnant women, and the elderly. Tobacco smoke contains more than 7000 chemicals. About 70 of them are known to cause cancer.
The chemicals in tobacco smoke harm your blood cells and damage the function of your heart. Smokers are 30-40% more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than non-smokers. Smoking is one of the most important factors that increases risk for osteoporosis (a condition in which bones get brittle & weak) and increases the chances of getting fractured. Nicotine can interfere developmental stages of brain that causing permanent brain damage. Tobacco smoking and tobacco chewing causes a negative impact on your oral health, increasing risk of oral cancer and gum diseases.
Tobacco use can harm the reproductive system. Smoking can reduce fertility, in both male and female. There is an increased risk of cancer like cervical and uterine cancer in the women who smoke either actively or passively.
Nicotine is a highly addictive substance that affects the brain’s reward system. Repeated exposure creates dependence, making it difficult for users to quit. Many people underestimate the addictive potential of nicotine found in cigarettes, shisha, smokeless tobacco products, and electronic cigarettes. Although vaping products are often marketed as safer alternatives, most contain nicotine and can lead to addiction while exposing users to potentially harmful chemicals.
As a Pulmonology Specialist, I frequently encounter patients suffering from tobacco-related respiratory illnesses. Smoking damages the airways and lung tissues, leading to chronic inflammation and reduced lung function. It is a major cause of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, emphysema, lung cancer, and worsening of asthma symptoms. More than 80% of cases of lung cancer are due to Tobacco smoke. Smokers are more prone to develop tuberculosis and pneumonia.
Common warning signs include persistent cough, breathlessness, wheezing, chest tightness, and recurrent respiratory infections.
The good news is that quitting tobacco offers immediate and long-term health benefits. Within days of quitting, oxygen levels in the body improve. Within weeks, lung function and circulation begin to recover. Over time, the risk of heart disease, stroke, lung cancer, and other tobacco-related illnesses decreases significantly. Regardless of age or duration of tobacco use, quitting remains one of the best decisions for overall health and wellbeing.
At Thumbay Hospital Fujairah, we are committed to supporting individuals in their journey towards better respiratory health and freedom from tobacco addiction. Our Pulmonology Department provides comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services for a wide range of respiratory conditions. Advanced diagnostic facilities available include Spirometry, 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), FeNO Testing, Sleep Studies, Bronchoscopy, Endobronchial biopsy, Brushing, Pleural Tapping, and Pleural Biopsy.
The hospital is also equipped with a modern Intensive Care Unit (ICU), advanced Radiology Department, state-of-the-art laboratory services, and 24/7 Emergency Care, ensuring comprehensive support for patients with respiratory and critical care needs.
“World No Tobacco Day” is not only an awareness campaign but also a call to action. Healthcare professionals, families, schools, workplaces, and communities all have an important role in preventing tobacco use and supporting those who wish to quit. By increasing awareness and encouraging healthy choices, we can reduce the burden of tobacco-related diseases and build a healthier future for the next generation.
This “World No Tobacco Day”, take a positive step towards better health. If you smoke or use nicotine products, seek professional guidance and support. Quitting today can make a lasting difference to your lungs, heart, and overall quality of life.
≈Choose Health. Choose Life. Say No to Tobacco≈
