Tobacco is consumed in various forms from cigarettes, bidis and cigars to smokeless forms such as khaini, gutkha, pan masala, mawa, gul, bajjar, gudakhu and snuff. It is estimated that tobacco is responsible for 1 out of 10 deaths among adults globally.
Through dummy advertisements, tobacco companies continue to jump through legal loopholes despite bans. What’s more is from IPL advertisements to large billboards, it seems like every major film star and celebrity is endorsing tobacco companies. In a country such as ours in which most of the population consists of impressionable youth, this has caused an increase in tobacco consumption in recent years despite statutory warnings and efforts of the government.
Tobacco addiction is exerted by a chemical Nicotine which causes feelings of euphoria and dependence. The effect of this dependence is such that while 70% of smokers want to quit, only 3-4% end up quitting. While it is ideal to have never started tobacco use, the game is not yet lost, and quitting is possible with the right mindset, guidance and support.
Primary care doctors are often the first to recognize the signs of tobacco dependence and counsel people to quit tobacco. Specialized doctors trained in deaddiction techniques should be consulted if you are likely to relapse. Telephone helplines are available for support anytime, if you need to talk. Apart from counselling, there are medications as well which help in controlling the uneasiness and craving for tobacco.
India is the second largest consumer of tobacco in the world and so, it is unsurprising that India is the capital of tobacco related oral cancer in the world. Almost 90% of oral cancer is tobacco related. Tobacco consumption during and after treatment of cancer leads to lower response rate to treatment, higher risk of recurrence and increased risk of developing new cancers.
The expert team led by Dr. Satish Nair at Apollo Hospitals Bannerghatta, Bangalore, offer the right diagnosis, treatment, and counselling to prevent and treat oral and head and neck cancer. Book your appointment today!
