According to reports from the World Health Organization (WHO), tobacco is responsible for more than 8 million deaths annually worldwide. Of these figures, more than 7 million deaths are attributable to direct tobacco consumption, while around 1.3 million are related to exposure to secondhand smoke. In Argentina, it is estimated that around 40,000 people die each year due to smoking.
Statistics indicate that 15% of deaths from cardiovascular diseases, 24% from cancer, and 45% from chronic respiratory diseases are related to tobacco consumption. Exposure to cigarette smoke, even in small amounts, can cause severe cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, such as ischemic heart disease and lung cancer.
In the words of Valeria El Haj, health advisor, "The majority of tobacco consumers wish to quit smoking." Providing counseling and medication can significantly double the chances of success in quitting the habit. Offering practical advice such as delaying the time to light a cigarette, deep breathing to relax, and drinking water instead of smoking can be very helpful.
It is important to highlight that tobacco is the only legal product that can kill half of its users, even if used according to the manufacturer's instructions. Quitting smoking brings immediate and long-term health benefits. People of all ages who quit this habit experience significant improvements in their quality of life.
Dr. Valeria El Haj emphasizes that "Quitting smoking reduces the risk of passive smoking-related diseases in children, such as sudden death, respiratory illnesses, otitis, and the risk of addiction in adolescence." Additionally, the Ministry of Health's free hotline (0800-999-3040) provides support to smokers who wish to quit, with trained personnel guiding the process of quitting tobacco.
It is worth noting that the benefits of quitting smoking manifest quickly: from a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure in just 20 minutes, to a reduction in the risk of lung cancer and heart disease in the long term. In summary, quitting tobacco is a fundamental step towards a healthier life free from the risks associated with cigarette consumption.
