Tobacco has long been an enemy of public health, but its devastating impact on young people is becoming increasingly concerning. Of the many health risks it poses, one of the most dangerous – and often overlooked – is oral cancer. As tobacco use becomes more common among young people, especially in the form of chewing tobacco and smoking, this threat is growing more rapidly than ever.
Why tobacco is dangerous to health
Tobacco contains more than 7,000 chemicals, many of which are toxic and at least 70 of which cause cancer. Whether smoked or chewed, tobacco attacks the body in a number of ways:
Lung damage: Smoking damages the airways and can lead to chronic respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and emphysema.
Heart disease: Tobacco use increases heart rate, narrows arteries and increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Weakened immune system: Smokers are more prone to infections and take longer to heal from injuries.
Addiction: Nicotine is one of the most addictive substances and is extremely difficult to quit once you start.
But the biggest and most visible risk of tobacco use, especially among young people who chew or smoke it, is mouth or oral cancer.
How oral cancer is affecting young people
Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer, is a serious disease that can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks and throat. In recent years, cases have been rising rapidly among young people, especially in areas where chewing tobacco (gutka, khaini, paan) is culturally prevalent.
Here is how tobacco affects young people:
Early exposure, lifelong consequences: Many teens start using tobacco under peer pressure or due to stress, unaware of its deadly consequences. Regular use during these formative years greatly increases the risk of oral cancer.
Late detection: Young people often ignore early symptoms such as mouth sores, white or red patches or difficulty chewing. By the time they seek help, the cancer has already progressed.
Disfigurement and social impact: Surgery and treatment for oral cancer can leave lifelong scars, both physically and emotionally. It can lead to loss of facial structure, speech problems and low self-esteem.
Lost potential: Battling a life-threatening disease at a young age can rob people of their education, career goals and a healthy future.
What can be done?
Awareness campaigns: Educating students in schools and colleges about the dangers of tobacco can be a powerful tool in prevention.
Stricter regulations: Governments should impose strict controls on the sale of tobacco, especially to minors, and ban flavoured tobacco products that target youth.
Support system: Encourage open conversations at home and provide access to counselling and cessation programmes for those who want to quit.
Role models and media: Celebrities and influencers can play a big role in normalising tobacco use among youth.
Tobacco may provide momentary excitement, but it poses a lifetime of health risks. Oral cancer is no longer just an old man’s disease – it is knocking at the door of the youth. It’s time we take action, spread awareness and save the next generation from falling into the deadly trap of tobacco.
Say no to tobacco. Say yes to life.
