World No Tobacco Day is commemorated every year on May 31st. Despite ongoing anti-tobacco campaigns, awareness among Indonesians to quit smoking remains low. The dangers of smoking are immense, as evidenced by the numerous toxic compounds found in cigarette smoke. There are approximately 5,000 different compounds in cigarette smoke, most of which are toxic to the body and have the potential to damage cells. Additionally, these compounds are carcinogenic, meaning they can trigger cancer. Tobacco smoke not only harms active smokers but is also extremely dangerous for passive smokers, especially children.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tobacco kills at least eight million people annually. Of this number, seven million deaths occur among smokers or direct users of tobacco, while one million deaths are due to the indirect effects of tobacco smoke on those around them. Based on data from the Global Youth Tobacco Survey and Basic Health Research (Riskesdas), 3 out of 4 people start smoking at the age of less than 20 years. The prevalence of child smokers continues to rise every year. In 2013 the prevalence of child smokers reached 7.20%, then rose to 8.80% in 2016, continue to 9.10% in 2018 and 10.70% in 2019. If not controlled, the prevalence of child smokers will increase to 16% in 2030.
Harmful and Destructive Substances in Cigarettes.
The contents of cigarettes include:
1. Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is tasteless and odorless. When exposed to excessive amounts, red blood cells tend to bind with carbon monoxide rather than oxygen, leading to decreased muscle function, heart fatigue, weakness, and dizziness.
2. Nicotine
Nicotine is addictive. It acts as a mediator in the brain's nervous system, triggering various reactions including pleasurable and calming sensations. Nicotine is absorbed into the bloodstream and stimulates the body to produce more adrenaline, resulting in increased blood pressure, heart rate, and respiration.
3. Tar
Tar inhaled by smokers settles in the lungs. This buildup of tar poses a high risk of lung diseases, such as lung cancer. Additionally, tar enters the bloodstream and increases the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and fertility issues. Tar can also cause gum problems and oral cancer.
4. Hydrogen Cyanide
Hydrogen cyanide is also used in the textile, plastic, and paper industries, often used as a fumigant for pest control. This compound can prevent the body from using oxygen properly, harm the brain, heart, blood vessels, and lungs. Symptoms that may arise include headaches, nausea, fatigue, and loss of consciousness.
5. Benzene
Benzene is a residue from cigarette combustion. Long-term exposure to benzene can decrease the number of red blood cells and damage bone marrow, increasing the risk of anemia and bleeding. Additionally, it can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of leukemia.
6. Formaldehyde
In short term, formaldehyde causes irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat. In long term, formaldehyde can increase the risk of nasopharyngeal cancer.
7. Arsenic
This compound is classified as the first group of carcinogen. Exposure to high levels of arsenic can increase the risk of skin cancer, lung cancer, urinary tract cancer, kidney cancer, and liver cancer.
8. Cadmium
Cadmium found in cigarette smoke is absorbed into the lungs. High levels of cadmium in the body can cause vomiting, diarrhea, kidney disease, brittle bones, and increase the risk of lung cancer.
9. Amonia
This compound is a poisonous gas, colorless, but sharp-smelling toxic gas. Inhalation and short-term exposure to ammonia can result in shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, eye irritation, and sore throat. Meanwhile, long-term effects can lead to pneumonia and throat cancer.
The impact of cigarette smoke on child development and health
The negative effects of smoking can not only be felt by smokers but also those closest to them, such as children. The following are some of the adverse effects that can threaten the health and lives of children if they are exposed to cigarette smoke too often, including:
- Pneumonia and bronchitis
- Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
- Respiratory problems in adulthood
- Inhibition of lung growth
- Stunting of child growth and development
- Ear infections and partial deafness
- Triggering attacks or worsening symptoms of asthma
Let's protect young people from the dangers of smoking by supporting effective public policies and creating a smoke-free environment.
References:
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3. Adrian, Kevin: Kenali Bahaya Asap Rokok bagi Anak. last reviewed : 8 November 2023. available at: https://www.alodokter.com/sebab-wajib-menjauhkan-buah-hati-dari-asap-rokok
4. Centauri, Cynthia: Rokok dan Dampaknya pada Kesehatan Anak: last reviewed : 1 Januari 2023. available at: https://rs.ui.ac.id/umum/berita-artikel/artikel-populer/rokok-dan-dampaknya-pada-kesehatan-anak
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