Tobacco Smoking Driving Tuberculosis Epidemic, W.H.O

The World Health Organisation said that, smoking tobacco is driving the tuberculosis epidemic, adding that in 2020, it was responsible for about 730,000 TB episodes.

According to the WHO, individuals who smoke are more at risk of experiencing problems with their lungs, even after successful completion of TB treatment.

The health agency disclosed this to commemorate the 2022 World No Tobacco Day, which is celebrated annually on May 31.

The theme of this year’s celebration is, Tobacco – Poisoning our Planet. The theme WHO said, aimed to shed light on the negative impacts of tobacco on human health, economies, societies and the environment.

The global health agency, stressed that individuals who smoke, along with people who are exposed to second hand smoke, are at higher risk of developing TB.

“Smoking tobacco slows down TB recovery, it is also linked with poor treatment outcomes, including relapse of TB and death.

“Tobacco usage is a destructive habit, with an estimate of eight million people dying yearly.

“Efforts to curb the number of people who smoke and to support people with TB to quit smoking are therefore crucial to reduce TB related suffering and deaths.”

The World Health Organisation’s end TB Strategy, lays emphasis on action on TB including tobacco smoking.