A recent public health report has revealed that tobacco kills 13.5 lakh Indians every year, making it one of the biggest preventable causes of death in the country. This alarming figure highlights the urgent need for stronger tobacco control laws, awareness campaigns, and medical support for those struggling with addiction.
How Tobacco Harms Health
- Cancer Risk: Tobacco use is directly linked to lung, oral, throat, and stomach cancers.
- Heart Diseases: Smoking and smokeless tobacco increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and hypertension.
- Respiratory Damage: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and lung infections are aggravated by tobacco use.
- Youth at Risk: India has one of the world’s largest populations of young smokers, with millions exposed to nicotine addiction early in life.
Economic Burden of Tobacco
Apart from health consequences, tobacco also causes a massive economic loss. Studies estimate that India spends over ₹1.8 lakh crore annually on healthcare costs and productivity losses due to tobacco-related diseases. This far outweighs the revenue earned from tobacco taxes.
Government Measures So Far
- Graphic Health Warnings on tobacco packs covering 85% of packaging.
- Ban on Tobacco Advertising in print, TV, and digital platforms.
- Higher GST Taxes on cigarettes, bidis, and chewing tobacco.
- Awareness Programs like “Tobacco Free India” campaigns in schools and colleges.
Despite these efforts, enforcement remains weak, especially in rural areas where smokeless tobacco (gutkha, khaini) is widely consumed.
Global Context
The World Health Organization (WHO) has repeatedly warned that India is among the top three tobacco-consuming nations in the world. While several countries are moving towards tobacco endgame policies (phasing out tobacco completely by 2030–2040), India still faces challenges in reducing widespread consumption.
Conclusion
The fact that tobacco kills 13.5 lakh Indians every year is a wake-up call. Unless India enforces stricter regulations, provides better cessation support, and creates strong public awareness campaigns, the health and economic toll will only grow. Tackling tobacco is not just a medical issue — it’s a national priority.
