27.01.2025
5 minutes
Smoking is known to cause serious health issues like cancer, heart disease, breathing problems, and mental health problems. Second hand smoke similarly poses a dangerous hazard on the health of the non-smokers, particularly in the case of young children and pregnant persons, who happen to be in the vicinity of the smoker. While the use of electronic cigarettes, otherwise known as vaping, might seem like a safer alternative, the World Health Organisation (WHO) warns that they pose the same health risks as the traditional cigarettes and are considered more dangerous in the sense that they can potentially normalize smoking behaviours and encourage non-smokers, particularly youths, into nicotine use.
The decision to stop smoking brings with it several benefits. Even within a few days of being a non-smoker, lung function starts to improve and the senses of taste and smell become more acute, allowing food and scents to be enjoyed more. The benefits are not only health related - not buying any traditional /e cigarettes any more could also lead to financial savings and improved relationships with others.
The Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Directorate offers a Quitline and a Smoking Cessation Service which can make quitting easier and more achievable. This free, one-to-one programme puts you in contact with a supportive facilitator who will work with you to create a personalised quit plan. Sessions are available in person at various health centers, over the phone, or online. Ready to take the first step? Call the Quitline on 8007 3333, or share this with someone who might benefit. Embrace a smoke-free future—your healthier, happier life is just a call away!
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