Category: Tobacco

Articles on harmful effects and impact of Tobacco in our lifestyle. Remedies to Quit Tobacco easily and much more. Keep Reading.

“ICanCaRe: A Critical Response to the Increased Risk of Asthma Hospitalization in Children Exposed to Second-hand Smoke”

“ICanCaRe: A Critical Response to the Increased Risk of Asthma Hospitalization in Children Exposed to Second-hand Smoke”

A pivotal study published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology reveals a concerning correlation between second-hand smoke exposure and increased hospitalization risks in children with bronchial asthma, particularly following infections like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).[1,2] This underscores the urgency of interventions like the ICanCaRe tobacco cessation program. (www.icancare.in)

Conducted by researchers from Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan, the study examined the impact of second-hand smoke on 2248 children who had a history of RSV infection and 444 children with a history of human metapneumovirus (hMPV) infection. Among these, 56 children had experienced both infections. The study, which sourced data from the Japan Health Insurance Association database (April 2004 to March 2017), reported that 38% of children with RSV infection, 40% with hMPV infection, and 39% with both infections were exposed to second-hand smoke.

The findings were alarming: hospitalization rates for asthma control were significantly higher in children exposed to second-hand smoke (4.5%) compared to their non-exposed counterparts (2.7%). Furthermore, the diagnosis of bronchial asthma occurred earlier in the exposed group, with a median age of 22 months, as opposed to 25 months in the unexposed group.

For children who developed hMPV infection at 12 months or older, those exposed to second-hand smoke were diagnosed with bronchial asthma at an average age of 33 months, compared to 47 months in non-exposed children. Notably, in children who had hMPV infection before 12 months, there were no hospitalizations in the second-hand smoke group.[2]

The study also highlighted those children with pre-existing bronchial asthma and RSV infection faced a greater risk of hospitalization if exposed to second-hand smoke. The odds ratio (OR) for hospital admission due to asthma exacerbation in these children was 1.69. [2]

The synergy between viral infections like RSV, hMPV, and second-hand smoke exposure in exacerbating bronchial asthma is a critical public health concern. This study not only points to the heightened risk of pediatric asthma but also to the urgent need for protective measures against second-hand smoke exposure.

The ICanCaRe digitalized tobacco cessation program (www.icancare.in) emerges as a beacon of hope in this scenario. By focusing on tobacco cessation and raising awareness about the dangers of second-hand smoke, ICanCaRe is positioned to play a pivotal role in mitigating the risk of pediatric asthma, especially in vulnerable children with a history of RSV or hMPV infections. With the #advicequittobacco campaign, we implore all doctors to ask and advice about tobacco use and quitting and refer them to the ICanCaRe centers for a 100% successful quit program. Call 011-43077695 or write to info@icancare.in and download the ICanCaRe tobacco Wellness APP (http://app.icancare.in)

Through programs like ICanCaRe, there is potential to reduce the onset and severity of pediatric asthma, providing a healthier future for our children as part of the prime campaign #SAVEtheYouth. The findings of this study serve as a powerful reminder of the critical importance of such interventions.

References:

1. Yoshizato R, et al. Secondhand smoking and pediatric asthma after respiratory syncytial virus or human metapneumovirus infection. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2023 Oct 18:S1081-1206(23)01342-X. doi: 10.1016/j.anai.2023.10.013.

2. Stong C. Available at: https://www.pulmonologyadvisor.com/home/topics/lung-infection/secondhand-smoke-rsv-and-pediatric-bronchial-asthma/. Dated Nov. 10, 2023. Accessed on Nov. 14, 2023.

#icancare #asthma #secondhandsmoking #icancareapp

Understanding the Link Between Smoking Cessation and Reduced Type 2 Diabetes Risk

In a groundbreaking collaboration, the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), and the University of Newcastle have released a policy brief emphasizing the significant health benefits of quitting smoking, particularly in relation to type 2 diabetes.

The Key Findings

– Reduced Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: The brief reveals that individuals who quit smoking can lower their risk of developing type 2 diabetes by an impressive 30-40%. This statistic highlights the profound impact that smoking cessation can have on one’s health, especially considering the prevalence and seriousness of type 2 diabetes.

– Impact on Blood Sugar Regulation: Smoking has been found to influence the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels. This dysregulation is a key factor in the development of type 2 diabetes, making smoking cessation a crucial step in mitigating this risk.

The joint policy brief by the WHO, IDF, and the University of Newcastle serves as a critical reminder of the power of lifestyle changes in preventing chronic diseases. For tobacco users, the decision to quit smoking can be a life-changing one, significantly reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and improving overall health. This information is not only crucial for individuals but also for healthcare systems and policymakers, guiding them in creating effective strategies to combat the dual challenges of smoking and diabetes globally.

In light of the significant findings from the joint policy brief by the WHO, IDF, and the University of Newcastle, the relevance of the ICanCaRe Tobacco Cessation Program becomes increasingly important. This program plays a crucial role in facilitating the journey towards a smoke-free life, especially for those at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

ICanCaRe Tobacco Cessation Program: A Beacon of Hope

1. Personalized Approach: The ICanCaRe program is designed to offer personalized support to individuals seeking to quit Tobacco. Understanding that each journey is unique, the program tailors its strategies to meet the specific needs and challenges of each participant. (www.app.icancare.in)

2. Comprehensive Support System: The program encompasses a range of support mechanisms, including counseling, behavioral therapy, and medical assistance in a protocol based approach provided by Certified Tobacco Cessation Specialists. This multi-faceted ABCD approach for tobacco cessation ensures that individuals have access to all necessary resources to 100% quit smoking or Chewing tobacco. The program is supported by

3. Educational Resources: ICanCaRe books and IEC materials also focus on educating participants about the health risks associated with smoking, including the increased risk of type 2 diabetes. By providing evidence-based information, the program empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health.

4. Community and Peer Support through TOBACCO MARSHALs: Recognizing the importance of a supportive community, the program trains TOBACCO MARSHALS (www.icancare.in/academy/marshal) to create influence in society.

References and Further Reading

For those interested in delving deeper into the topic, the following references provide valuable insights:

  1. World Health Organization, International Diabetes Federation, and the University of Newcastle. “Policy Brief on Smoking and Type 2 Diabetes.” This brief offers a comprehensive overview of the research linking smoking cessation to a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes.
  2. ICanCaRe. “Tobacco Cessation Program Overview.” www.icancare.in
  3. American Diabetes Association. “The Impact of Smoking on Diabetes and Diabetes Management.” This article discusses the implications of smoking on diabetes management and the benefits of cessation.
  4. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. “Smoking and Diabetes.” This resource offers a deeper understanding of how smoking affects diabetes risk and control.
  5. ICanCaRe. (2021). ABCD of Tobacco Cessation. https://www.icancare.org/abcd.html

Conclusion

The collaboration between the WHO, IDF, and the University of Newcastle, along with programs like ICanCaRe, highlights the critical intersection of smoking cessation and diabetes prevention. By leveraging these resources and programs, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of type 2 diabetes and improve their overall health, marking a substantial step forward in public health and personal well-being.

#icancare #diabetesandSmoking #smoking #quittobacco #icancareapp

What to do if your brother is a tobacco user? BHAI DHOOJ SPECIAL

What to do if your brother is a tobacco user?

Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of preventable death and disease in the world. It can harm not only the smoker but also the people around them who are exposed to second-hand smoke. If your brother is a tobacco user, you may be worried about his health and well-being, and you would wish your brother to be tobacco-free. Here are some steps you can take to support your brother in his journey to becoming tobacco-free. Read – Why should a sister wish her brother to be tobacco-free. https://blog.icancare.in/2023/08/31/why-should-asister-wish-her-brother-be-tobacco-free/

1. #KNOWTOBACCO. Be a Tobacco MARSHAL. Educate yourself about the dangers of tobacco use and the benefits of quitting. Learn about the different types of tobacco products, such as cigarettes, cigars, pipes, hookahs, e-cigarettes, and smokeless tobacco. Find out how they affect the body and increase the risk of various diseases, such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, lung disease, and diabetes. The short-term effects and long-term effects. Also, learn about the positive effects of quitting tobacco, such as improved breathing, blood pressure, circulation, taste, smell, and mood. You can find reliable information from various sources and also from http://blog.icancare.in Please download the ICanCaRe Tobacco Wellness APP

2. COMMUNICATE –  Talk to your brother about his tobacco use and his reasons for quitting. Choose a time and place where you can have a calm and respectful conversation with your brother. Avoid nagging, lecturing, judging, or criticizing him for his tobacco use. Instead, express your concern and care for him, and ask him how he feels about his tobacco use and his readiness to quit. Listen to his answers and try to understand his perspective. You can also share some facts and benefits of quitting tobacco that you learned from step 1 but do not overwhelm him with too much information at once. You will need to have patience.

3. WIN OVER TOBACCO IS EASY – Encourage your brother to seek professional help and use evidence-based methods to quit tobacco. Quitting tobacco can be very challenging, especially if your brother has been using it for a long time or has a strong addiction. He may need more than just your support to quit successfully. You can suggest that he talk to Certified Tobacco Cessation Specialists near you or online Call ICanCaRe Quitline  @ 011-43077695,  about his tobacco use and get advice on the best ways to quit. You can also help him find and use proven methods to quit tobacco, such as nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), Nicotine Receptor Agonist medication, behavioral therapy, or quitline services. Certified Tobacco Cessation Specialist uses the most advanced digital tobacco cessation protocol for a 100% quit rate.

Most users, when given the assurance and hand held by a certified tobacco cessation specialist and with ABCD Quit Tobacco Intervention, are more than willing to quit!!!

An ICanCaRe Certified Tobacco Cessation Specialist follows the ABCD Of Tobacco Cessation to help in a 100% quit rate.

4. HAND HOLD- Be his Quit Buddy. Connect with your CTCS. Support your brother throughout his quitting process and celebrate his achievements. Quitting tobacco is not easy, and your brother may face many challenges and setbacks along the way. He may experience withdrawal symptoms, cravings, stress, mood swings, or weight gain. He may also encounter triggers or temptations that make him want to smoke or use tobacco again. You can help your brother cope with these difficulties by being there for him when he needs you. You can offer him emotional support, such as listening to his feelings, giving him encouragement, or reminding him of his reasons for quitting. You can also offer him practical support, such as helping him avoid or deal with triggers, distracting him from cravings, or joining him in healthy activities that reduce stress and improve well-being. Additionally, you can celebrate his achievements and milestones with him, such as going one day, one week, one month, or one year without tobacco. You can praise his efforts, reward his progress, or do something fun with him to mark the occasion.

5. BE A QUIT BUDDY. BE PATIENT. Do NOT FEEL GUILTY. – Be patient and understanding with your brother and yourself. Quitting tobacco is a personal decision and a process that takes time and effort. Your brother may not be ready to quit right away or may not quit on his first attempt. He may relapse or resume his tobacco use after quitting for a while. Do not give up on him or blame him for his failures. Instead, be patient and understanding with him and help him learn from his mistakes and try again. Remember that every quit attempt is a step forward and an opportunity to improve. Similarly, be patient and understanding with yourself, and do not feel guilty or frustrated if you cannot make your brother quit tobacco. You cannot control his behaviour or force him to change; you can only offer your support and guidance. The final decision and responsibility lie with him.

By following these steps, you can show your brother that you care about him and that you want him to live a healthier and happier life without tobacco.

Let us join hands to #savetheyouth.

(The Author – Dr. Pawan Gupta M.Ch. is Director of Surgical Oncology at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali, Patparganj, and Noida. He is the author of the books – Win Over Tobacco Made Easy, Be Smart Do Not Start and is highly recognized for his work on Oral Cancer and Tobacco Cessation. He is the convenor for the Certified Course in Tobacco Cessation at Gujarat University, and has trained more than 1000 doctors to be tobacco cessation specialists).

Book your appointment today to start a healthy tobacco/smoke-free life with the best in class tobacco/smoking cessation experts at www.icancare.in/quittobacco or call 011-430-77695 for help. Download the ICanCaRe e-cessation app for quitting smoking and tobacco at https://app.icancare.in.