Every year, May 31 is observed worldwide as World No Tobacco Day. The primary objective of this observance is to raise awareness about the deadly health consequences of tobacco consumption and its harmful impact on health, the environment, and the economy.

The official theme announced by the World Health Organization (WHO) for World No Tobacco Day 2026 is “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing the Tactics of Nicotine and Tobacco Addiction.” Despite decades of progress in reducing traditional tobacco use, the tobacco and nicotine industries have evolved and adopted new strategies to attract users.

World No Tobacco Day was established by WHO Member States in 1987 with the aim of protecting present and future generations from the harmful effects of tobacco, including cancer, heart disease, and severe respiratory illnesses. Globally, nearly 8 million people die every year due to tobacco-related diseases.

Each year, a special theme is selected to highlight emerging challenges in tobacco control:

2026 Theme: “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing the Tactics of Nicotine and Tobacco Addiction”
2025 Theme: “Bright Products, Dark Intentions – Unmasking the Appeal”
2024 Theme: “Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference”

WHO first declared April 7, 1988, as a day against smoking. Later, through a resolution in 1988, May 31 was officially designated as World No Tobacco Day.

In India, the day is marked by awareness rallies, slogan campaigns, pledge ceremonies, and school competitions to promote the vision of a “Tobacco-Free Generation.” Popular anti-tobacco slogans include:

“Burn Calories, Not Tobacco”
“Say Yes to Life, Say No to Tobacco”

Tobacco use significantly increases the risk of at least 15 types of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and numerous respiratory disorders. Tobacco can be consumed in various forms, including cigarette smoking, chewing tobacco, dipping tobacco, hookah, and cigars. Cigarette smoking remains the most common form of tobacco use.

According to the World Health Organization, approximately 12 percent of the world’s smokers live in India. More than one million people die every year in India due to tobacco-related diseases.

Five Major Diseases Linked to Tobacco Use

1. Lung Cancer

Tobacco smoking is responsible for approximately 87 percent of lung cancer deaths worldwide and remains the leading cause of the disease. For individuals who continue smoking after diagnosis, the five-year survival rate is extremely low.

2. Oral Cancer

Around 90 percent of oral cancer patients have a history of tobacco use. Chewing or dipping tobacco, where tobacco is held between the teeth and gums, is a major cause of oral cancer and also increases the risk of throat cancer.

3. Heart Disease

Smokers are nearly twice as likely to suffer a heart attack compared to non-smokers. Smoking increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including coronary heart disease and stroke. Cigarettes contain nicotine, which stimulates the release of adrenaline, raising blood pressure and increasing heart rate. One in every five deaths from heart-related diseases is linked to tobacco smoking.

4. Stroke

Smoking causes narrowing of the arteries, restricting blood flow and oxygen supply to the brain, which can result in a stroke. A stroke occurs when blood supply to the brain is interrupted, depriving brain cells of oxygen and causing them to die. Stroke can lead to paralysis, speech impairment, cognitive dysfunction, and even death.

5. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

COPD is a chronic respiratory condition that makes breathing difficult. Patients often struggle with activities such as climbing stairs, running, jogging, or performing physical work. The disease can cause disability and premature death. Tobacco smoking is one of the leading causes of COPD, accounting for nearly 80 percent of all cases.

Dr. Liaqat Ali Mansoori emphasized that quitting tobacco is one of the most effective steps individuals can take to improve their health and quality of life. Public awareness, preventive measures, and community participation are essential to achieving a healthier, tobacco-free society.

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