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Sinar Daily
5 hours ago
- Health
- Sinar Daily
Breaking free: Guide to kicking the unhealthy habit
Cigarette smoking has long been a deeply ingrained habit in Malaysia, often associated with social settings such as coffee shops and roadside eateries. Despite the presence of 'No Smoking' signs in certain areas, compliance had historically been inconsistent. However, in recent years, the landscape has shifted following the implementation of stricter tobacco control laws. While the prevalence of traditional cigarette use has shown a decline, the emergence and increasing popularity of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and vapes present a new public health concern. Why is it time to quit smoking for good? Smoking poses a significant threat to both public health and the economy. In Malaysia, approximately 20,000 deaths annually are attributed to smoking-related illnesses. Tobacco use harms nearly every organ in the body and is a major cause of lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It also contributes to coronary heart disease, stroke, and numerous other cancers and chronic health conditions. Exposure to secondhand smoke is also harmful at any level, as it increases the risk of heart disease, lung cancer, and other serious illnesses. Secondhand smoke, also known as passive smoke, consists of the smoke exhaled by smokers and the smoke released from the burning end of a cigarette. Children and other vulnerable groups are especially affected, with exposure linked to respiratory infections, ear infections, asthma attacks, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). In addition to its health consequences, smoking imposes a heavy financial burden on the nation. A significant portion of the national gross domestic product is allocated to healthcare expenses for treating diseases related to smoking. This situation highlights the need for coordinated efforts aimed at preventing smoking initiation, particularly among the younger population, and providing effective support for individuals who wish to quit smoking. The benefits of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) Whether in the form of traditional cigarettes or e-cigarettes, smoking products contain nicotine, which is a highly addictive substance that reinforces the habit and makes quitting especially difficult. According to the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) 2023, 59.7 per cent of smokers in Malaysia have expressed a desire to quit smoking. However, many face challenges such as nicotine dependence and limited access to support services. Therefore, it is crucial to increase public awareness about the treatment options and support systems that are available to help individuals overcome addiction and successfully quit smoking. Nicotine is the key addictive component in smoking products; meanwhile, the other toxic substances found in traditional cigarettes are responsible for the health issues and deaths linked to smoking. Nicotine works by stimulating receptors in the brain, which triggers the release of dopamine hormone. Photo for illustration purposes only. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) is an effective treatment designed to assist individuals in quitting smoking by providing controlled amounts of nicotine without exposing the body to the harmful substances present in cigarettes. This helps alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings, gradually decreasing physical dependence on cigarettes. Over time, the dosage of NRT is reduced, allowing the body to adjust and ultimately quit nicotine use entirely. There is strong evidence supporting the effectiveness of NRT in helping individuals quit smoking, and it is widely recommended by clinical guidelines as a first-line treatment for those seeking pharmacological support. The Health Ministry (MOH) reclassified NRT products, such as gum and patches, from the 'Group C poison' category under the First Schedule of the Poisons Act 1952 to the non-poison group. These changes have made these products more accessible, allowing for widespread over-the-counter sales in pharmacies across Malaysia. The appropriate ways to use NRT products Each NRT product should be used with specific instructions to maximize its effectiveness and minimize potential side effects. Nicotine gum Nicotine gum is designed to release nicotine gradually while being chewed, helping to manage cravings effectively. Nicotine gum should be used for up to 12 weeks, with a maximum of 24 pieces per day. Nicotine gum should be chewed slowly until a peppery or mint taste or tingling sensation is felt. The gum should then be held between the cheek and gum until the tingling sensation fades. This chew-park cycle should be repeated for up to 30 minutes. To ensure proper absorption of nicotine, it is advisable to avoid eating or drinking anything except plain water for 15 minutes before and during the use of the gum. Common side effects of nicotine gum may include mouth soreness, hiccups, dyspepsia, and jaw aches which are usually mild and temporary. Nicotine patches Nicotine patches are transdermal devices designed to release nicotine steadily throughout the day, helping individuals manage cravings and reduce dependence. Nicotine patches should be applied once daily to clean, dry, and non-hairy skin, such as the upper arm, hip, back, or chest. The patch should be pressed firmly for approximately 10 seconds to ensure proper adhesion. To prevent skin irritation, it is advisable to rotate the application sites with each new patch and avoid applying the patches on the same spot. Nicotine mouth sprays Nicotine mouth sprays deliver nicotine directly to the mouth lining for quick relief of cravings, making them a fast-acting option for those looking to curb their nicotine urges. When cravings emerge or when an individual would typically smoke, one or two sprays should be used. The maximum recommended usage is four sprays per hour to avoid excessive nicotine intake. Nicotine lozenges Nicotine lozenges are available in two strengths, with 2 mg for smokers who consume fewer than 20 cigarettes per day, and 4 mg for those who smoke more than 20 cigarettes daily. The maximum duration for using nicotine lozenges is 24 weeks. It is important not to chew or swallow the lozenge, and one should also refrain from eating or drinking while it is in the mouth to ensure proper absorption. Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, and oral discomfort. Advice for smokers before using NRT products Before starting any nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), it is highly recommended to consult healthcare professionals, such as doctors or pharmacists. They can help to assess the suitability of NRT by identifying any allergies or health conditions that may interfere with its use. They will also guide smokers in selecting the most appropriate form of NRT (patches, gum, sprays, or lozenges) and the correct dosage based on their smoking habits and lifestyle. In many cases, combining long-acting NRT (like patches) with short-acting options (such as gum or sprays) can be more effective in managing cravings. Healthcare professionals such as doctors and pharmacists can provide detailed instructions on the proper use of the chosen NRT product to ensure maximum effectiveness. They will monitor progress through regular follow-ups, help manage any side effects, and adjust the treatment plan as needed. These will subsequently increase the chances of long-term success. Individuals who wish to quit smoking are also encouraged to seek help from the Smoking Cessation Services available at most MOH healthcare facilities. In addition, similar support is provided through the mQuit programme, which is offered by selected private healthcare facilities. In conclusion, quitting smoking is a challenging but achievable goal. With the right support and treatment, individuals can break free from nicotine addiction. The combination of effective NRT, guidance from healthcare professionals, and a commitment to making lasting lifestyle changes can significantly improve the chances of success. If there are any inquiries regarding medicines, please call the National Pharmacy Call Centre (NPCC) at the toll-free number 1-800-88-6722 during weekdays from 8am to 5pm, except on public holidays. Jolene Tay Luen Ling is a pharmacist. The views expressed in this article are her own and do not necessarily reflect those of Sinar Daily.
India Today
31-05-2025
- Health
- India Today
Not just lungs, tobacco silently damages the heart years before symptoms appear
Tobacco consumption, in any form, remains a significant cause of cardiovascular issues, silently weakening heart health long before visible stealthy effects of tobacco and its constituents trigger a series of changes within the cardiovascular system, laying the foundation for life-threatening conditions like a heart attack or stroke, years before any clinical signs become has one of the highest rates of smokeless tobacco use in the world. Unlike smoking tobacco, smokeless tobacco products, such as chewing tobacco, snuff, and snus, are not burned. Instead, they are used orally or nasally, allowing nicotine to be absorbed through the mucous membranes of the mouth or According to the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) 2016-17, 21.4% of Indian adults use smokeless tobacco, compared to 10.38% who use smoking tobacco. This indicates that nearly one in five adults in India consumes some form of smokeless tobacco, as highlighted by the National Health FIRST TARGETOne of the first targets of tobacco's harmful effects is the endothelium, a thin layer of cells lining the blood vessels. Chemicals mainly in cigarette smoke, like carbon monoxide, nicotine, and reactive oxygen species, affect the endothelium, reducing its ability to produce nitric oxide, which is essential for vessel relaxation and quality blood issue, called endothelial dysfunction, is one of the earliest changes in smokers that is detectable. Second-hand exposure to smoke can also contribute to the narrowing of arteries and set the stage for further vascular AND OXIDATIVE STRESSA chronic inflammatory response in the body is triggered by tobacco smoke. The oxidative chemicals in smoke affect the expression of adhesion molecules on the walls of vessels, which causes the sticking of platelets and WBCs to the endothelium. One of the first targets of tobacco's harmful effects is the endothelium, a thin layer of cells lining the blood vessels. () This not only promotes inflammation but also accelerates the uptake of Oxidised LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol by immune cells, transforming them into foam cells- a sign of the formation of early atherosclerotic time, these plaques increase and stiffen the arteries, silently increasing the chances of a heart attack and HIDDEN THREATThe delicate balance of the blood clotting system is also disrupted by smoking. It increases the concentration of fibrinogen, a type of protein involved in the formation of clots, and alters the platelet function, making blood thicker and stickier, and more likely to changes create a prothrombotic state, where clots form more easily and start blocking narrowed arteries, often with catastrophic consequences. The most concerning part here is that these alterations occur well before any symptoms of chest pain or breathlessness LIPID CHANGESTobacco chemicals, like nicotine, cause blood vessels to constrict, which raises blood pressure and heart rate. Tobacco chemicals, like nicotine, cause blood vessels to constrict, which raises blood pressure and heart rate. () At the same time, the use of tobacco raises triglyceride levels and lowers HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, and both of these contribute to the buildup of arterial alterations increase the workload of the heart very quietly in the SILENT PROGRESSIONCardiovascular damage done by tobacco is more alarming because of its stealth. Sometimes, years can pass before any sign emerges in the form of a heart attack, stroke, or sudden cardiac the time it is diagnosed, the damage is often awfully advanced or may be irreversible. However, studies have shown that quitting tobacco can somewhat halt or even reverse some of these changes, significantly reducing the risk of any fatal outcome.(Disclaimer: This is an authored article. The views and opinions expressed by the doctors are their independent professional judgement, and we do not take any responsibility for the accuracy of their views.)Must Watch
United News of India
30-05-2025
- Health
- United News of India
Tobacco consumption claims over 78,000 lives annually in Rajasthan
Jaipur, May 30 (UNI) Tobacco consumption claims the lives of approximately 8 million people worldwide each year, with India accounting for over 13.5 lakh deaths and Rajasthan witnessing over 78,000 fatalities annually. Moreover, more than 5,500 children in the country and over 350 in the state start consuming tobacco and other smoking products daily. Pawan Singhal, Senior Professor at the ENT department of Sawai Man Singh Hospital in Jaipur, highlighted these alarming statistics ahead of World No Tobacco Day - May 31. Citing the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS), Dr. Singhal emphasized that the increasing trend of tobacco consumption among Rajasthan's youth is detrimental to their health, with nearly 78,000 people succumbing to tobacco-related deaths in the state. The Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS 2019) reveals that 74.3% of adolescents in Rajasthan have been exposed to tobacco product promotions, while 15.6% are aware of e-cigarettes. Dr. Singhal stressed that the tobacco industry uses innovative marketing strategies to attract young people, which has a direct impact on the youth. On World No Tobacco Day 2025, the theme "Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing the Industry's Tactics to Hook New Generations" will be discussed globally. The campaign aims to raise awareness among school and college students about the harmful effects of tobacco and the deceptive marketing strategies employed by the tobacco industry. Shyam Maru, Trustee of Sukham Foundation, emphasised the need for collective efforts to reduce cancer cases and promote a healthy society. According to the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS-II) 2017-18, 26.7 crore adults (28.6%) in India use tobacco, with 21.4% consuming smokeless tobacco and 10.7% smoking cigarettes and bidis. The survey also reveals that over 5,500 children start using tobacco daily in the country. UNI XC AKT SSP
Fashion Network
01-05-2025
- Business
- Fashion Network
H&M Foundation visits Panipat to promote circular textile economy
A delegation from the H&M Foundation and Global Fashion Agenda recently visited a key textile recycling hub in Panipat to explore collaborative strategies for a circular and inclusive textile economy. The visit was hosted by the Global Alliance for Textile Sustainability Council and aimed to advance global efforts toward sustainable fashion. The delegation included Lennart Bernhoft, chief operating officer of GFA, alongside Carola Tembe, Jodith Tesfai, and Elin Hallerby from the H&M Foundation, Apparel Resources India reported. The team was welcomed by GATS chairman Parvinder Singh and his team, who showcased Panipat's comprehensive waste-to-product supply chain. The visit centred on three priority areas: scaling textile waste recycling, increasing the economic value of recycled materials, and improving social protections for workers, particularly those in the unorganised sector. These themes reflect the broader goals of building a resilient, circular economy with equitable labour standards. GATS also outlined its ambition to transform Panipat from a home furnishings recycling hub into a garment sourcing destination, supported by local skill development and circular design practices. The H&M Foundation's ongoing involvement in the region through GFA's 'Green Threads & Weaves' initiative with the Foundation for MSME Clusters was highlighted as a platform for enabling sustainable business models in local enterprises.
Economic Times
23-04-2025
- Business
- Economic Times
Govt seeks mode-wise services export data to improve accuracy
New Delhi: In a move to improve the granularity and accuracy of services export data, the government has introduced a new field titled 'Mode of Export of Services' in the eBRC (Electronic Bank Realisation Certificates). The e-BRC is a digital certificate issued by banks to exporters, confirming that payment for an export transaction has been received in foreign currency. This reform also aligns India's data capture policy with international norms, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) said in a notification. 'This Directorate is introducing a new field titled 'Mode of Export of Services' in the eBRC format for the Services Export category, applicable for eBRC generated on or after May 1, 2025,' it reform also aligns India's data capture policy with international norms under WTO (World Trade Organisation) GATS (General Agreement on Trade in Services). This new field, it said, corresponds to the four modes of services trade - cross border supply (like IT services, remote consulting, telemedicine); consumption abroad (tourism, medical treatment in India, foreign students); commercial presence (Indian bank branches overseas, IT company subsidiaries); presence of natural persons (Engineers, doctors, IT professionals on assignment).
