World No Smoking Day – 12 March 2025
Dr Surya Kant
Professor and Head Department of Respiratory Medicine KGMU Lucknow.
Past Secretary, Indian Society Against Smoking.
No Smoking Day is observed every year on the second Wednesday of March, with the primary aim of raising awareness about the severe health effects of smoking and encouraging people to quit. This year, it will be observed on 12 March 2025, with the theme: “Take back your life this No Smoking Day.” The day was first observed in 1984 in Ireland and later gained popularity in the United Kingdom and other countries. It has become an important occasion to promote smoking cessation and encourage people to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 80 lakh deaths occur annually due to tobacco consumption—out of which over 7 million are caused by direct smoking, while around 12 lakh deaths result from exposure to secondhand smoke. In India, tobacco use is a serious concern, with approximately 35 lakh people dying each year due to tobacco-related diseases.
On this day, awareness campaigns highlight how quitting smoking can protect individuals from 40 types of cancer and 25 other serious diseases. Secondhand smoking poses the greatest risk to children and pregnant women, as they are exposed to harmful smoke from an early stage. WHO reports that around 12 lakh people die globally due to secondhand smoking, underlining that tobacco consumption is a major public health challenge not just for individuals but for society as a whole.
Health Risks of Smoking
Smoking leads to fatal diseases, including lung cancer, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), stroke, high blood pressure, and various respiratory issues. Nicotine, the highly addictive component in tobacco, stimulates the brain’s dopamine levels, making it difficult for smokers to quit once they become addicted. Smoking does not only harm the smoker but also affects those around them, a phenomenon known as passive smoking. Passive smoking increases the risk of severe health complications, especially in newborns, pregnant women, and the elderly.
How to Quit Smoking?
Quitting smoking can be challenging, but with the right strategies and support, it is possible. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) is an effective method that includes nicotine gums, patches, and lozenges, which help ease withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, medications like Bupropion and Varenicline can help reduce nicotine cravings, but these should be taken only under medical supervision.
Mental and emotional support is equally crucial while quitting smoking. Many people experience stress, irritability, and insomnia during withdrawal, making counseling, therapy, and support groups highly beneficial. Family and friends play a key role in this process, as their encouragement makes it easier for individuals to stay committed to their decision to quit.
Adopting a healthy lifestyle also supports smoking cessation. Regular exercise helps reduce stress and increases endorphin levels, promoting positive energy. Maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep can also aid the process. It is important to avoid triggers that lead to smoking—such as coffee breaks, social gatherings, or stressful situations—and replace them with healthier habits.
Government and Social Initiatives
Governments and social organizations take various measures to control smoking. Many countries have banned tobacco advertisements to prevent people from being influenced. In India and several other nations, smoking in public places is prohibited, protecting non-smokers from harmful exposure. Additionally, higher taxes on tobacco products make them less accessible, discouraging people from smoking. Schools and colleges conduct awareness programs to educate youth about the dangers of smoking.
A Step Toward a Tobacco-Free Future
No Smoking Day is not limited to a single day; rather, it serves as a reminder to think about quitting and take action throughout the year. This day highlights that smoking is harmful not only to our health but also to our families and society. By quitting smoking, we can improve our quality of life and prevent serious diseases. A tobacco-free life benefits not just individuals but entire communities.
Thus, No Smoking Day is an opportunity to recognize the importance of quitting smoking and adopting a healthier lifestyle. It contributes to a better future for ourselves and future generations. If you are a smoker, now is the best time to quit. By doing so, you will not only improve your own health but also set a positive example for your family and society. The goal of No Smoking Day is not just to avoid smoking for a single day but to take a firm step toward quitting it forever.
