Anti-Tobacco Month Awareness

May marks Anti-Tobacco Campaign Month in South Africa, a vital period dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers

of tobacco use and promoting cessation efforts.

Despite widespread knowledge of the health risks, tobacco remains a significant public health

challenge in the country. The Global Adult Tobacco Survey revealed that 29.4% (about 12.7 million) South Africans were using tobacco in 2021, with just over a quarter using smoking tobacco (most commonly cigarettes, vapes or hubbly) and 4.3% using non-smoking tobacco (nicotine pouches, snuff aka “zyns” or “sinus” and chewing tobacco). Tobacco use is

associated with several major health conditions ranging from lung cancer to heart disease and causes over 39 000 tobacco-related deaths every year.

The health risks of tobacco use

Tobacco consumption is a leading cause of preventable diseases and deaths in South Africa. It is associated with various health issues, including lung cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and heart disease. Research indicates that cigarettes will kill half of those who smoke, underscoring the critical need for effective tobacco control measures. The effects of quitting tobacco use can be felt as soon as 20 minutes after smoking and the benefits will last well over 10 years after quitting. Some

benefits include:

• Food tastes better.

• Your sense of smell returns to normal.

• Your breath, hair, and clothes smell better.

• Your teeth and fingernails stop yellowing from staining.

• Ordinary activities like climbing stairs use less energy.

• You can be in smoke-free environments without having to leave for a smoke.

There are several organisations are actively working to combat tobacco use in South Africa, which include:

• Protect Our Next: A citizen-led initiative supporting the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill, aiming to protect public health from the harms of tobacco and e-cigarette products.

• CANSA (Cancer Association of South Africa): Offers resources and programmes to help individuals quit smoking, including the eKick Butt online cessation programme.

• Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa: Encourages South Africans to avoid smoking and protect themselves and their families from exposure to second-hand smoke.

Support for those seeking to quit smoking

For individuals struggling with tobacco addiction, several support services are available:

• National Council Against Smoking (NCAS): Provides a Quitline at 011 720 3145 and email support at quit@iafrica.com.

• South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA): Offers addiction prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation services. Contact them at 011 892 3829 or via WhatsApp at 076 535 1701.

• South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG): Provides a 24-hour Substance Abuse Helpline at 0800 12 13 14 for

assistance in fighting substance abuse.

Quitting smoking is a challenging journey, but with the right support and resources, it is achievable. Anti-Tobacco Campaign Month serves as a reminder of the importance of tobacco cessation and the collective effort required to promote a

healthier, smoke-free South Africa.