World no tobacco day: Protecting children from tobacco industry interference

World No Tobacco Day (May 31st) is an ideal time to focus on a pressing issue: keeping children safe from the harmful influence of the tobacco industry. Children today are especially vulnerable to the tricks used by tobacco companies, which get them addicted early on. In India, where tobacco use is a major health concern, it's imperative for us to pay heed to this growing public health concern and take action. Here are some expert and practical advice by Dr. Vaibhav Kumar (Dept. of Public Health Dentistry, Dr GD Pol Foundation YMT Dental College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai) along with Vibhav and Aysha on how we can curb this menace in our daily lives. Tobacco Industry: The Stark Reality of this Growing ThreatDespite ongoing efforts to reduce tobacco use, many children still start smoking or using other forms of tobacco each year. The Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) shows that about 28.6% of adults in India use tobacco, with many starting in their teens. Around 14.6% of kids aged 13-15 years use tobacco. This early exposure can lead to serious health problems, including oral cancer, increasingly seen among young people due to products like gutka, cigarettes, and chewing tobacco. Moreover, newer tobacco products like e-cigarettes, hookah, and vaping are also becoming popular among the youth. These products are often marketed as safer alternatives to traditional cigarettes, but they come with their own risks. E-cigarettes contain nicotine and harmful chemicals, which may lead to respiratory issues and addiction. Hookah, often seen as a cultural tradition, can expose users to high levels of toxic compounds, increasing the risk of cancer and heart disease. Vaping, with its appealing flavours, is not harmless and can cause lung damage and nicotine addiction.What Can We Do To Protect Our Kids?Protecting children from tobacco doesn't have to be overwhelming. Here are some easy, practical steps you can integrate into your family’s daily routine: Start Conversations EarlySafeguarding children from tobacco starts with early and open conversations. One highly recommended method is the 5A approach to tobacco counseling which can help guide these discussions: Encourage the Establishment of Tobacco-Free Zones Support and encourage the establishment of tobacco-free zones in your community, especially around schools, playgrounds, and other places where children spend time. Advocate for policies that keep these areas free from tobacco influence.Promote Extracurricular ActivitiesEngage your kids in sports, hobbies, and other activities that promote a healthy lifestyle. Keeping them busy with positive activities reduces their chances of experimenting with tobacco.Stay Informed and InvolvedKeep yourself updated on the latest information about tobacco products and their risks. Participate in community events and campaigns that aim to reduce tobacco use. Knowledge is power when it comes to protecting your children.Advocate for Stricter RegulationsSupport policies that limit tobacco advertising, especially in places that appeal to young people like social media (Instagram, YouTube and video platforms. Push for stricter regulations on emerging tobacco products like e-cigarettes and vaping devices.Such small steps in our daily lives can lead to big changes for the next generation.In conclusion, on World No Tobacco Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to protecting children from the harmful influence of the tobacco industry. By implementing evidence-based policies, raising awareness, and empowering our youth, we can create a future where every child has the opportunity to grow up tobacco-free. It is time to nip it in the bud, reduce rather than annihilate associated harms and kick the tobacco butt. The youth is responsible to foster a harmonious, tobacco-free space.