Smoking: A Growing Threat to Women's Health

Jaipur: The addiction to smoking has not only engulfed the youth of Jaipur but also young girls and boys. Apart from cigarettes and alcohol, they are now getting hooked to e-cigarettes. Shockingly, children between 13 to 15 years of age are using e-cigarettes at a higher rate than adults.

This is despite the central government banning these substances. According to psychiatrists, over 100 people visit the OPD daily to get rid of their addiction to various substances, including e-cigarettes.

Alarming Rise in E-Cigarette Use among Girls

The number of girls using e-cigarettes is increasing rapidly, and they are now catching up with boys in this regard. The age group of 15 to 30 years is particularly vulnerable to this trend. The use of e-cigarettes is leading to various health problems in girls, including cervical cancer, premature menopause, and pregnancy-related issues.

Report Reveals Disturbing Trends

A report by the Central Health Ministry reveals that while there has been a decline in tobacco consumption in the country, the trend of smoking among young girls has increased by more than two times. The World Health Organization's Global Report on Trends in Prevalence of Tobacco Use 2000-2030 states that over 25.1 crore people in India are still consuming tobacco products, with 79% being men and 21% being women.

E-Cigarettes: A Threat to Brain Development

The chemicals used in e-cigarettes can shrink the brain's arteries, affecting its development. This can lead to memory loss, learning disabilities, and anxiety in young people. The nicotine in e-cigarettes is carcinogenic, increasing the risk of heart and lung diseases.

Negative Impact on Women's Health

Smoking can lead to cervical cancer, premature menopause, and pregnancy-related problems in women. The use of nicotine can also disrupt menstrual cycles and fertility. Smoking during pregnancy can lead to complications, including ectopic pregnancy, which can be life-threatening for the fetus.

Pregnant Women Beware

Smoking during pregnancy is extremely dangerous not only for the mother but also for the unborn child. It can lead to heart defects, premature birth, and even miscarriage. The nicotine in cigarettes can also pass on to the baby through breast milk, increasing the risk of serious health problems.

Experts warn that the growing trend of smoking among young girls and women can have devastating consequences for their health and well-being. It is essential to raise awareness about the dangers of smoking and to take measures to prevent this habit from spreading further.

(By Ravi Shankar Sharma, Jaipur)