World Day Without Smoking

The purpose of this day is to raise awareness about the risks that tobacco use brings, as well as the company of effective policies aimed at reducing its use.

In this day's case, the World Health Organization draws attention to the harmful effects of smoking and exposure to passive smoking, as well as cautions against smoking in any form.

Under the “theme, pray and leave the”, this year's O campaign The U.S. for World Day without Smoking focuses on providing the necessary tools and resources for those who want to quit smoking so that they can succeed in their efforts.

Smoking is a major risk factor for non-traditional diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, respiratory diseases and diabetes.

The benefits of quitting are almost immediate. After only 20 minutes without smoking, heart rate decreases within 12 hours, normal carbon monoxide in the blood, within 2-12 weeks, blood circulation improves, and lung function increases.

In 1-9 months coughing and panting are reduced. Within 5-15 years, the risk of stroke falls to the risk level for non-smoking. Within 10 years, lung cancer mortality rates are halved compared to that of smokers. Within 15 years the risk of heart disease falls at the risk level for nonsmoking.

Otherwise, the chances of smokers successfully quitting are 84% greater when they receive intensive medical advice.

To help smokers quit smoking, WHO and its partners have developed new digital tools, such as the Council of Tobacco Challenge (Quit Challnge) and digital health worker with Artificial Intelligence Florence simulating a health - care worker to combat disinformations about COVID-19 and tobacco, offers brief advice for smokers about quitting, and refers to smokers in digital smoking services.

Lenie's challenge gives daily advice and encouragement up to six months to help everyone stay away from tobacco. Application is available for free in WhatsApp, Viber, Facebook Messenger and WeChat.

At the world level, about 39% of men and 9% of women are smokers. The highest smoking rates are currently found in Europe, at 26%, while forecasts show a drop of only 2% by 2025 if governments do not take urgent action. / KP