Opinion | Smoking – An overlooked concern amid rise in digital stress

In today’s fast- moving world in terms of technology and digital workspace , where everyone is concerned about the harmful effect of social media, digital media, screen time. Conversations around mental health, social media addiction, and its impact on young minds are abundant. However a significant yet overlooked , a major concern that has never went down in its use i,e smoking continues to grow among the population. Rate of smoking among the youth is incessantly increasing with some taking it for pleasure and some tag it with heart break and what not. I think we should also be concerned about the rise of smoking in today’s era along with the growing effects of digital media. The widespread awareness campaigns about smoking have been present for decades, but smoking remains a persistent issue in many parts of the world. What is even more alarming is the resurgence of smoking among younger generations, often influenced by peer pressure, glamorized media depictions, and the marketing strategies of tobacco companies. Despite the proven dangers of smoking such as lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory issues, the topic of smoking seems to have lost its significance in modern discourse, overshadowed by the newer, more pressing concerns of digital media and social networks.

The rise of digital media has undoubtedly transformed how we live, work, and communicate. However, this shift has also diverted attention from pressing health concerns like smoking. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tobacco kills over 8 million people annually, with millions more suffering from smoking-related illnesses. Tobacco can also be deadly for non-smokers. Second-hand smoke exposure has also been implicated in adverse health outcomes, causing 1.2 million deaths annually. Nearly half of all children breathe air polluted by tobacco smoke and 65 000 children die each year due to illnesses related to second-hand smoke. Smoking while pregnant can lead to several life-long health conditions for babies (Source: WHO) .

A survey conducted by the Department of Community Medicine at Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar around a year ago revealed that approximately 23 percent of school-going adolescents in Srinagar are smokers. The survey found that 29 percent of adolescent boys were ever smokers, and 23 percent were current smokers.
More than half (60.8%) of adolescents were exposed to tobacco smoke in public places. Factors associated with current cigarette smoking among adolescents included parental smoking, peer smoking, exposure to movies with actors smoking, lack of anti-smoking media messages, and not discussing the dangers of smoking in class (Source: Kashmir Observer) and also via NHFS – 5 Data , 32% Men, 1% Women Consume Tobacco In J&K.
Yet, the topic rarely makes headlines compared to the latest social media trends or smartphone innovations.We forget that we are creating a new generation of nicotine-dependent individuals.

The physical consequences of nicotine addiction are severe and far reaching. Smoking, the most common method of nicotine consumption, is a leading cause of diseases such as lung cancer, heart disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Nicotine itself raises blood pressure and heart rate, increasing the risk of cardiovascular problems.
Nicotine in any form weakens the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and illnesses.

Nicotine addiction doesn’t just harm the body, it also takes a toll on mental health. The constant craving for nicotine can lead to anxiety, irritability, and mood swings when the substance is not consumed. With time, users may find it difficult to focus or function without their regular dose of nicotine. This dependency can interfere with daily life, relationships, and productivity.

Moreover, nicotine addiction often becomes a coping mechanism for stress or emotional challenges. On a larger scale, smoking related illnesses place a significant burden on healthcare systems, costing billions annually in medical expenses and lost productivity. Families and communities are affected as well, as they lose loved ones prematurely to smoking related diseases.

Smoking addiction is a silent health crisis that demands urgent attention. Its physical, psychological, and social effects are devastating, yet often overlooked in the broader conversation about public health. By raising awareness, supporting those struggling with addiction, and implementing effective policies, we can combat this epidemic and create a healthier future for all. Educational institutions also have a role to play. Schools and colleges should incorporate comprehensive anti-smoking programs that address both traditional cigarettes and modern alternatives like vaping. Parents too need to be equipped with the knowledge to discuss these issues with their children openly and look after the activities of their children.

In a world obsessed with digital trends, let’s not forget the real world consequences of smoking. It’s a battle worth fighting, and the time to act is now. By bringing smoking back into the spotlight, we can save lives, reduce healthcare costs, and create a healthier future for generations to come. The digital age offers us unprecedented tools to spread awareness. Let’s use them to tackle this silent epidemic before it’s too late.

Author is Msc Zoology and can be reached at junaidmwani110@gmail.com