Unmasking the Appeal: Towards a Tobacco-Free World
World No Tobacco Day, observed annually on May 31st, is a global initiative led by the World Health Organization (WHO) to raise awareness about the devastating health, social, and economic effects of tobacco use and to encourage policies that help reduce its consumption.
A Global Health Crisis
According to WHO and the World Heart Federation, tobacco kills more than 8 million people globally each year. Of these, over 7 million deaths result from direct tobacco use, while 1.2 million are due to exposure to second-hand smoke.
In India, tobacco use claims around 1.35 million lives annually, placing an immense burden on public health and healthcare infrastructure. Men form a significant majority of global users, with 36.7% of men and 7.8% of women reported to have used tobacco in 2020.
This day serves as a powerful reminder to educate communities about the dangers of tobacco and mobilize governments, healthcare organizations, and civil society to promote a tobacco-free future.
The Significance of No Tobacco Day
Tobacco is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths worldwide. The harmful effects range from life-threatening diseases to chronic health problems. World No Tobacco Day brings global attention to:
- The health risks of tobacco use
- The tactics of tobacco industries
- Effective ways to help people quit
- The importance of strong tobacco-control policies
A Brief History
World No Tobacco Day was established by WHO in 1987. The first official observance took place in 1988. Since then, each year has had a unique theme.
Some notable past themes include:
- 2017: “Tobacco – a threat to development”
- 2018: “Tobacco breaks hearts”
- 2021: “Commit to Quit”
- 2023: “Grow food, not tobacco”
- 2024: “Youth step in and speak out – #TobaccoExposed”
- 2025: “Unmasking the Appeal”
The Dangers of Tobacco
There is no safe form of tobacco, and even minimal exposure is harmful. Tobacco use can lead to a range of health conditions, including:
- Lung Cancer: A primary cause linked directly to smoking.
- Heart Disease: Increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.
- Respiratory Illnesses: COPD, emphysema, and chronic bronchitis.
- Oral Health Issues: Gum disease, oral cancer, and tooth loss.
- Premature Aging: Skin damage and early wrinkles.
- Reproductive Harm: Infertility, miscarriage, and SIDS.
- Weakened Immunity: Reduced ability to fight infections.
Social and Economic Impact
- Financial Strain: High healthcare costs and lost productivity.
- Social Stigma: Smoking can lead to isolation.
- Second-hand Smoke: Puts non-smokers, especially children and the elderly, at risk of severe health issues.
Support for Quitting
There are many effective tools to help individuals quit tobacco:
- Mobile apps and helplines
- Behavioral therapy and counseling
- Nicotine replacement therapies
- Community-based programs
Dera Sacha Sauda: A Beacon of Hope in the Fight Against Tobacco
Dera Sacha Sauda, a socio-spiritual organization with over 70 million followers worldwide, has been a pioneer in promoting a drug-free lifestyle. Under the leadership of Saint Dr. Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh Ji Insan (Dr. MSG), the organization has initiated 168 humanitarian campaigns, including a strong movement against intoxicants like tobacco.
Revolutionizing De-addiction through Spirituality
His Holiness Dr. MSG actively encourages people to abandon substance abuse through the “Method of Meditation”, which is taught free of cost. In massive spiritual gatherings, thousands voluntarily discard tobacco, cigarettes, bidis, and other harmful products — which are often burned as a symbolic gesture of liberation.
A Support System for the Marginalized
Lakhs of individuals have successfully managed to overcome tobacco and intoxicant addiction through a massive program known as DEPTH Campaign. This nationwide campaign is supported by SAFE Campaign that aims to help with faster recovery and social mainstream integration of individuals who cannot afford nutritious meals or have no support system.
Many of those who have benefitted from the SAFE (Self-Actualization for Freedom from Exploitation) Campaign are individuals who could not afford expensive rehabilitation.
The campaign provides:
- Nutritional support to restore physical strength (including natural supplements like isabgol, proteins, and electrolytes)
- Spiritual guidance to build inner resilience
- Psychological counseling
Together, these create a comprehensive recovery ecosystem.
Awareness Campaigns
Public rallies, community events, and massive awareness campaigns are regularly conducted by the Dera Sacha Sauda volunteers to promote a healthy, tobacco-free lifestyle. Dera volunteers advocate for stricter policies and greater public education to curb tobacco use and its environmental impact.
Looking Ahead: A Tobacco-Free Bharat
As we observe World No Tobacco Day 2025, let us commit to:
- Supporting cessation efforts
- Educating youth and communities
- Implementing and enforcing tobacco control policies
- Celebrating organizations like Dera Sacha Sauda that transform lives at the grassroots level
Together, let’s put an end to tobacco usage and foster a healthier, addiction-free nation.
