Smoking Linked to 2 Million Cardiovascular Deaths Worldwide
Smoking deaths claim two million lives worldwide, experts warn.
The deaths are a serious global health concern. Experts say tobacco harms almost every organ and exposes users to toxic chemicals. They include nicotine, tar, and carbon monoxide.
A study found that more than two million people die yearly from tobacco-linked cardiovascular diseases. Researchers linked tobacco with cancer, stroke, heart attacks, and lung conditions.
In Pakistan, tobacco-related diseases cause 160,000 deaths each year. That equals more than 450 deaths daily, showing the burden.
Smoking harms the heart and lungs
Pulmonologists in Lahore say tobacco remains a cause of lung disease. It damages airway tissues, weakens immunity, and causes inflammation.
Dr Zeeshan Ali told APP that tobacco use can cause chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD. This condition damages air sacs and narrows airways, making breathing difficult.
He added that tobacco smoke can damage cellular DNA and expose lung tissue to carcinogens. It raises the risk of cancer, stroke, heart attacks, and other diseases.
Dr Imran-ul-Hassan of PKLI&RC said no smoking level is safe. Each cigarette exposes the body to cancer-causing chemicals and toxins. He warned that tobacco can worsen asthma and increase heart risks.
Awareness remains a major concern
A BMJ Open study examined more than 240,000 smokers across 46 countries. Most participants knew it could cause lung cancer. However, fewer understood its links with heart disease, heart attacks, and stroke.
Researchers found limited awareness about secondhand smoke. Such exposure can also harm people nearby.
Therefore, experts urged stronger public education and tobacco-control measures. Punjab already bans smoking and tobacco sales in public places, including parks, schools, hospitals, and public transport.
The province also restricts vapes, e-cigarettes, and tobacco sales in and around parks. Violators may face fines ranging from Rs1,000 to Rs100,000, depending on the violation.
