cfhinitiative

SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON RAISING EMPOWERED GIRLS: ADDRESSING GENDER BIAS AND VIOLENCE IN YOUTHS

Gender bias remains a pervasive issue that manifests in various aspects of a girl’s life, from education and employment opportunities to healthcare and social expectations. These biases often result in unequal treatment, limiting girls’ potential and contributing to systemic disadvantages. According to a 2020 report by UNESCO, over 130 million girls worldwide are out of school due to factors like poverty, cultural norms, and violence.

Gender-based violence (GBV), including domestic violence, sexual harassment, and harmful practices like child marriage, further exacerbates these challenges. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that one in three women globally has experienced physical or sexual violence, predominantly by an intimate partner. For young girls, the consequences are devastating, affecting their mental and physical health, educational attainment, and future opportunities.

Education is a powerful tool in combating gender bias and violence. Empowering girls with education not only enhance their individual potential but also promotes gender equality in society. Educated girls are more likely to advocate for their rights, delay marriage, and pursue careers, contributing positively to their communities.

Economic empowerment also plays a key role in raising empowered girls. Providing girls with opportunities for vocational training and access to financial resources can help them achieve independence and gain control over their lives. This not only benefits the girls themselves but also contributes to broader social and economic development.

The importance of addressing gender bias and violence against girls cannot be overstated. Empowering girls is not just about ensuring their rights and well-being; it is also about building stronger, more equitable societies. When girls are educated, healthy, and free from violence, they are more likely to contribute to their communities and economies, leading to broader social and economic benefits.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

#SpeakWednesday #GirlChildEmpowerment #GirlsEducation #EqualityForAll #GenderEquality #GenderBias

References

1. UNESCO. (2020). Global Education Monitoring Report 2020: Inclusion and Education – All Means All*. Retrieved from [UNESCO](https://en.unesco.org/gem-report/report/2020/inclusion).

2. World Health Organization. (2021). Violence against women prevalence estimates, 2018. Retrieved from [WHO](https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240022256).

3. UNICEF. (2022). Gender Action Plan 2022-2025: Addressing Gender Inequality for Every Child. Retrieved from [UNICEF](https://www.unicef.org/reports/gender-action-plan-2022-2025).

4. Global Fund for Women. (2021). Advancing Gender Justice: The Power of Women-Led Movements. Retrieved from [Global Fund for Women] (https://www.globalfundforwomen.org/).

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON LEGAL RIGHTS AND REALITIES: PROTECTING BREASTFEEDING MOTHERS IN NIGERIA

Speak Wednesday, Women, World Breastfeeding Week / cfhinitiative

Breastfeeding is a fundamental right and a crucial aspect of infant health, but breastfeeding mothers often face challenges in public spaces and workplaces. Despite the significant benefits of breastfeeding for both mother and child, public stigma and discrimination against breastfeeding mothers remain prevalent. This social issue not only undermines the health and well-being of children but also infringes on the rights of mothers.

In Nigeria, legal protections exist to support nursing mothers, yet many mothers face discrimination and lack of support when attempting to breastfeed in public spaces or workplaces.

Many employers, particularly in the private sector, are either unaware of these laws or choose to ignore them. The informal sector, where a large percentage of Nigerian women work, is even less regulated, leaving many nursing mothers without legal protection.

Also, breastfeeding in public can provoke a range of reactions, from mild discomfort to outright hostility. Many mothers report feeling judged, embarrassed, or even harassed when they breastfeed outside the privacy of their homes.

Nigeria has made strides in establishing legal frameworks to protect breastfeeding mothers. They include:

Labour Act (S.54): This Act mandates that breastfeeding nursing workers are entitled to breastfeeding breaks of at least 30 minutes twice a day.
The Child Rights Act of 2003 provides that children have the right to be breastfed.
National Policy on Infant and Young Child Feeding: This policy promotes exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding up to two years or beyond, ensuring mothers have the support needed.
Public Health Laws: Various health policies emphasize the importance of breastfeeding and the need to create conducive environments for nursing mothers.

Although Nigeria has taken steps to protect breastfeeding mothers through the above legal frameworks, involving stronger legal protections, better enforcement, and cultural change are required. Furthermore, educating both employers and the public about the importance of breastfeeding and the legal rights of nursing mothers can reduce stigma and improve compliance.

It’s time to celebrate and support the natural act of breastfeeding, ensuring that no mother feels ashamed or discriminated against for nurturing her child in public or at work.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

#SpeakWednesday #BreastfeedingRights #HealthyBabiesHealthyNation #GenderEquality #GenderBias

REFERENCES:

Labour Act (Cap L1 LFN 2004):

– Nigerian Labour Act. (2004). Available at: [ILO Database of Labour Legislation] (https://www.ilo.org/dyn/natlex/docs/WEBTEXT/42156/67562/E90NGA01.htm).

National Policy on Infant and Young Child Feeding:

– Federal Ministry of Health, Nigeria. (2010). National Policy on Infant and Young Child Feeding in Nigeria. Available at: [Federal Ministry of Health Nigeria] (https://www.health.gov.ng/doc/IYCF_policy_2010.pdf).

Public Health Laws:

– Federal Ministry of Health, Nigeria. (2005). National Health Policy. Available at: [Federal Ministry of Health Nigeria] (https://www.health.gov.ng/index.php/documents/category/22-policies).

Impact of Public Stigma:

– World Health Organization. (2020). Breastfeeding. Available at: [WHO] (https://www.who.int/health-topics/breastfeeding#tab=tab_1).

– Nigerian Health Watch. (2018). Challenges of Breastfeeding in Nigeria. Available at: [Nigerian Health Watch] (https://nigeriahealthwatch.com/challenges-of-breastfeeding-in-nigeria/).

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON VIRAL HEPATITIS – VACCINE AND TREATMENT

#ViralHepatitis, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Monday Health Burst / cfhinitiative

Hepatitis, a viral infection affecting the liver, poses significant global health challenges with various strains leading to potentially severe consequences. Vaccination has proven to be a critical tool in preventing the spread of Hepatitis A and B, while advancements in medical treatments offer hope for those afflicted with Hepatitis C.

Hepatitis A
Vaccine:
The Hepatitis A vaccine is highly effective and is recommended for children over one year of age, travelers to regions with high Hepatitis A rates, and individuals with chronic liver disease. The vaccine is administered in two doses six months apart.

Treatment:
There is no specific treatment for Hepatitis A, as it typically resolves on its own. Supportive care includes rest, hydration, and maintaining a nutritious diet. Patients are advised to avoid alcohol and drugs that can further harm the liver.

Hepatitis B
Vaccine:
The Hepatitis B vaccine is crucial for preventing infection and is administered in a series of three or four shots over six months. It is recommended for all infants at birth, healthcare workers, and individuals at higher risk of exposure.

Treatment:
According to the CDC, there is currently no medication for acute hepatitis B. For mild symptoms, doctors recommend rest, proper nutrition, and adequate hydration. In cases of severe symptoms, hospitalization may be necessary 1. Chronic Hepatitis B may require antiviral medications to reduce liver damage and the risk of liver cancer. Common antivirals include entecavir and tenofovir. Regular monitoring and liver function tests are essential for managing the condition.

Hepatitis C
Vaccine:
Currently, there is no vaccine for Hepatitis C, making prevention through other means, such as safe injection practices and blood screening, vital.

Treatment:
Hepatitis C treatment has advanced significantly with the development of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). These medications can cure most cases of Hepatitis C, typically within 8 to 12 weeks. Common DAAs include sofosbuvir, ledipasvir, and velpatasvir. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications such as liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Vaccination remains a key preventive measure for Hepatitis A and B, while effective treatments are available for managing and curing Hepatitis B and C. Public health efforts focus on increasing vaccine coverage, improving access to treatments, and promoting safe practices to reduce the incidence of hepatitis infections globally.

REFERENCE:
https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis-b/treatment/index.html

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OVERVIEW OF HEPATITIS B; CAUSES, TRANSMISSION AND SYMPTOMS

#ViralHepatitis, Monday Health Burst, WHO / cfhinitiative

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver and can cause both acute and chronic disease. The hepatitis B virus is highly infectious and can survive outside the body for at least seven days, maintaining its ability to infect. Despite the availability of effective vaccines, hepatitis B remains a major public health challenge.

According to WHO estimates, 254 million people were living with chronic hepatitis B infection in 2022, with 1.2 million new infections occurring annually.¹

Hepatitis B is primarily transmitted through contact with infectious body fluids, such as blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. Common routes of transmission include:

Mother to Child: The most common mode of transmission globally. If a mother is infected with HBV, the virus can be transmitted to the baby during childbirth.
Sexual Contact: Unprotected sex with an infected partner can lead to transmission of the virus.
Sharing Needles: Using contaminated needles or syringes, especially among intravenous drug users, is a significant risk factor.
Blood Transfusions and Medical Procedures: Receiving blood products or undergoing medical procedures with non-sterile equipment can lead to infection.
Household Transmission: Sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes with an infected person can also spread the virus.

The symptoms of hepatitis B can vary from mild to severe and typically appear 1 to 4 months after exposure to the virus. They include:

Fatigue
Fever
Loss of appetite
Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain, particularly near the liver
Dark urine
Clay-colored stools
Joint pain
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

In many cases, especially in children, hepatitis B may be asymptomatic, meaning the infected person shows no symptoms.

Over the past five years, CFHI’s hepatitis vaccination campaigns have reached over 5,000 individuals in Nigeria. CFHI joined the global VH Elimination efforts during the 2018 World Hepatitis Day (WHD) to ‘find the missing million.’ In Obi, Nasarawa state, a community with a high prevalence of Hepatitis B and C infections, over 150 people were tested for Hepatitis B and C, and more than 200 individuals received education on viral hepatitis. Also in 2022, CFHI collaborated with Kagini Primary Health Care Centre to commemorate World Hepatitis Day, 2022. Over 100 people were reached and educated about hepatitis and out of those tested, 95 were negative and 5 were positive.

Hepatitis B is a preventable but potentially life-threatening liver infection. Understanding its transmission routes, recognizing symptoms early, and practicing preventive measures are crucial in managing and reducing the spread of hepatitis B. Vaccination remains the most effective tool in preventing HBV infection.

Reference:

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hepatitis-b

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON CAUSES, TRANSMISSION AND SYMPTOMS OF HEPATITIS

Monday Health Burst / cfhinitiative

Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). Unlike other forms of hepatitis, hepatitis A does not cause chronic liver disease, but it can cause acute liver inflammation and is a significant public health concern globally.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in rare cases, hepatitis A can lead to liver failure and even death. This is more common among older adults and individuals with other serious health conditions, such as chronic liver disease.

Causes and Transmission

The hepatitis A virus is typically spread through the fecal-oral route. This means the virus is present in the stool of an infected person and can contaminate food, water, and surfaces. Common sources of infection include:

Contaminated Food and Water: Eating raw or undercooked food, especially shellfish from contaminated water, is a common way to contract hepatitis A.
Close Personal Contact: Living in the same household or having sexual contact with an infected person increases the risk of transmission.
Poor Sanitation and Hygiene: Areas with poor sanitation or overcrowded living conditions are more susceptible to outbreaks.

Symptoms

Symptoms of hepatitis A can range from mild to severe and typically appear 2 to 7 weeks after exposure to the virus. They may include:

Fatigue
Sudden nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain or discomfort, especially in the upper right side beneath the lower ribs (by your liver)
Clay-colored bowel movements
Loss of appetite
Low-grade fever
Dark urine
Joint pain
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Intense itching

These symptoms usually last less than two months, although some people can be ill for as long as six months. In children under age 6, hepatitis A often causes no symptoms.

Hepatitis A, while typically less severe than other forms of hepatitis, can still cause significant discomfort and disrupt daily life. Understanding the transmission routes, recognizing symptoms early, and practicing preventive measures are crucial in managing and reducing the spread of hepatitis A. Vaccination remains the most effective tool in preventing infection and ensuring public health safety. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, we can protect ourselves and our communities from this contagious disease.

Reference:

https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis-a/about/index.html

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON GIRLS AT RISK: HOW GENDER BIAS FUELS CHILD LABOUR IN NIGERIA

Child Labour, Speak Wednesday / cfhinitiative

In Nigeria, gender bias is a silent but powerful force driving many young girls into child labour.

According to UNICEF, over 43% of children between the age of 5 to 17 are engaged in child labour, and girls are disproportionately affected. The reasons are deeply rooted in cultural norms and economic hardships, often pushing girls out of school and into work.

Girls in Nigeria are frequently pulled out of school to support their families through labour, with many working in hazardous conditions.

The United Nations reports that societal expectations place girls in the roles of caregivers and domestic helpers from a very young age. This unpaid labour within their own homes often extends into exploitative work outside. Tasks like hawking goods, domestic servitude, and even hazardous jobs in agriculture become their daily reality. This not only robs them of their childhood but also of opportunities for education and future economic independence. Furthermore, most of them are exposed to physical abuse, sexual exploitation, and long-term psychological harm.

What can be done? Initiatives and policies that enforces compulsory education to keep girls in school and out of labour, providing them with the tools they need to build a better future can be instrumental in fighting child labour. By challenging gender stereotypes and investing in girls’ education, we can break the chains of child labour and empower the next generation of Nigerian women.

Let’s stand together to protect our girls and ensure they have the bright futures they deserve.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

References:

– UNICEF, “Child Labour,” available at [UNICEF] https://www.unicef.org/nigeria/child-protection/child-labour

– United Nations, “Child Labour in Agriculture,” available at [UN] https://www.un.org/en/global-issues/child-labour

– World Health Organization, “Child Labour and Health,” available at [WHO] https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/child-labour

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON HEALTH BENEFITS OF FAMILY PLANNING

Monday Health Burst / cfhinitiative

Family planning is an essential component of public health, empowering individuals and couples to determine the number and spacing of their children. Its impact extends beyond individual well-being, fostering healthier families, communities, and societies at large. Access to comprehensive family planning services is therefore crucial for achieving global health and development goals.

Maternal Health Improvements

Family planning significantly enhances maternal health by allowing women to space pregnancies appropriately. Adequate spacing between births reduces the risk of complications such as preterm births, low birth weight, and maternal mortality.¹ Pregnancies that are too close together can strain a woman’s body, leading to health issues such as anemia and uterine rupture. By using family planning methods, women can recover fully before conceiving again, ensuring a healthier pregnancy and delivery.

Reduction in Infant and Child Mortality

The timing and spacing of births also play a critical role in reducing infant and child mortality rates. Closely spaced pregnancies are associated with higher risks of premature births and low birth weights, both of which are significant factors in infant mortality. Furthermore, adequate birth spacing allows parents to provide better care and attention to each child, leading to improved health and developmental outcomes.

Prevention of Unintended Pregnancies

Unintended pregnancies can lead to various health risks, including unsafe abortions, which are a significant cause of maternal mortality worldwide. Family planning reduces the incidence of unintended pregnancies, thereby lowering the risk of unsafe abortions. Additionally, it helps women and couples make informed decisions about their reproductive health, contributing to overall well-being.

Control of Population Growth

Effective family planning contributes to the control of population growth, which has broader health implications. Rapid population growth can strain healthcare systems, reduce access to medical services, and exacerbate poverty and malnutrition. By managing population growth, family planning helps maintain a balance between population size and available resources, ensuring better health services and living conditions.

Empowerment of Women and Gender Equality

Family planning empowers women by giving them control over their reproductive health. This empowerment leads to better educational and economic opportunities, as women who can plan their families are more likely to pursue higher education and participate in the workforce. Enhanced gender equality has been linked to improved health outcomes for women and their families.

At CFHI, we collaborate with donors, healthcare facilities, and relevant organizations to provide reproductive health services in diverse communities. One of these initiatives is the collaboration with Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) to increase awareness of Family Planning and Post-Partum Family Planning services and create linkages between the community and health facilities in 10 Local Government Areas in Kaduna State. Our efforts resulted in reaching significant milestones. CFHI reached 921 traditional birth attendants, 513 leaders, 285 Islamiyah school teachers, 598 community women organizations and Zumuntar Mata members. Additionally, 217 TBA-led community sensitization sessions were conducted, and 150 Islamiyah school cascading sessions were held in 109 wards of the target LGAs.

During Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (MNCH) week, CFHI annually provides free HIV screening, deworming drugs, immunizations, Vitamin A supplementation, malnutrition screening and referrals, distribution of routine pregnancy drugs, and other essential services to mothers and children.

The health benefits of family planning are extensive and multifaceted. By promoting maternal and child health, preventing unintended pregnancies and STIs, empowering women, and supporting environmental sustainability, family planning is a crucial public health tool.

Reference

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6667399/

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WORLD DAY AGAINST CHILD LABOUR

Child Labour, Child Trafficking, Speak Wednesday / cfhinitiative

Every year, on June 12th, the world comes together to recognize World Day Against Child Labour, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the plight of child labourers globally and encouraging actions to eliminate this scourge. This year, the theme, “Let’s Act on Our Commitments: End Child Labour!” calls upon governments, organizations, and individuals to reaffirm their pledges and take concrete steps toward eradicating child labour.

Child labour is defined by the International Labour Organization (ILO) as work that is mentally, physically, socially, or morally dangerous and harmful to children. It deprives them of the opportunity to attend school and impedes their overall development. As per Business Insider (2018), child labour not only denies children their right to education but also exposes them to severe human rights violations, including sexual assault, human trafficking, and exploitation by drug dealers and armed groups.

An estimated 218 million children worldwide, aged between 5 and 17, are engaged in labour, with 152 million of them working under hazardous conditions. These children toil away in fields, factories, and homes, sacrificing their childhood and their future for survival.

In today’s reality, poverty remains a significant driver of child labour, especially in countries like Nigeria. Children are often forced to toil in harsh conditions to support their families, becoming the primary breadwinners. This harsh reality not only perpetuates the cycle of poverty but also compounds social inequality and discrimination.

While constructive activities like helping with light housework or taking on part-time jobs during school breaks can benefit children, child labour starkly contrasts by severely restricting access to education and impeding a child’s physical, mental, and social growth. For girls, the situation is even more dire, as they bear the “triple burden” of school, work, and household chores, heightening their risk of falling behind and increasing their vulnerability to poverty and exclusion.

On this day, CFHI joins the global community in reminding us that there is no justification for child labour. CFHI actively engages in awareness campaigns, educational programs, and advocacy efforts to highlight the dangers of child labour and champion systemic changes that safeguard vulnerable children from exploitation.

As UNICEF aptly puts it, “There is no reason, there is no excuse. Child labour is child abuse.” By acting on our commitments and working together, we can ensure that every child enjoys a childhood free from labour, filled with education, play, and the promise of a brighter future.

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON UNDERSTANDING POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION: EARLY SIGNS AND INTERVENTION

Monday Health Burst, Postpartum Depression / cfhinitiative

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a complex, multifaceted condition that affects many new mothers worldwide.¹ It goes beyond the “baby blues,” a common experience characterized by mood swings, crying spells, and anxiety shortly after childbirth, typically resolving within two weeks. PPD, however, is more severe and enduring, requiring timely recognition and intervention to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the child. Understanding the symptoms and early signs of postpartum depression is crucial for effective intervention and support.

Early Signs of Postpartum Depression

Recognizing the early signs of PPD is the first step toward seeking help. These symptoms can appear anytime within the first year after childbirth, often peaking within the first three months. Key indicators include:

Persistent Sadness or Low Mood: Unlike the transient sadness of baby blues, PPD is marked by a prolonged feeling of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness.
Loss of Interest or Pleasure: New mothers with PPD often lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, including bonding with their baby.
Changes in Appetite and Weight: Significant weight loss or gain and changes in appetite can be symptoms of PPD.
Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia or excessive sleeping, especially when not related to the baby’s needs, can indicate PPD.
Fatigue and Loss of Energy: A pervasive lack of energy and chronic fatigue, beyond the typical exhaustion of new motherhood, are common signs.
Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt: Intense feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or inadequacy about being a good mother are prevalent in PPD.
Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering things can signal depression.
Anxiety and Panic Attacks: Excessive worry about the baby’s health or one’s ability to care for the baby, sometimes escalating into panic attacks, is another symptom.
Thoughts of Self-Harm or Harm to the Baby: In severe cases, mothers may have thoughts of harming themselves or their baby, indicating the need for urgent intervention.

Intervention and Support

Early intervention is crucial for improving outcomes for mothers experiencing postpartum depression (PPD). Seeking professional help, including therapy to address negative thought patterns and improve interpersonal relationships, is advisable. In moderate to severe cases, antidepressants may be prescribed, and it is essential to discuss the benefits and risks with a healthcare provider, particularly regarding breastfeeding. Additionally, it is important for mothers to get adequate rest, eat nutritious meals, engage in physical activity, and take time for relaxation. Involving family members in the care process can provide valuable emotional and practical support. Joining a support group can also help reduce feelings of isolation.

Postpartum depression is a serious condition that requires attention and care. By understanding the early signs and knowing when and how to seek intervention, mothers and their families can ensure better mental health outcomes. Early recognition and intervention are key to overcoming postpartum depression, fostering a healthier, happier postpartum experience.

Reference:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10400812/

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON HEALTH IMPLICATIONS OF TOBACCO

Drug Abuse, Monday Health Burst, WHO / cfhinitiative

Tobacco use remains one of the leading causes of preventable disease and death worldwide. Despite extensive public health campaigns and increasing awareness, millions of people continue to use tobacco in various forms, exposing themselves to numerous health risks.¹ Some of the health implications include;

Cardiovascular Disease

Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease. Nicotine, the addictive component of tobacco, raises blood pressure and heart rate, putting extra strain on the heart. Additionally, carbon monoxide from cigarette smoke reduces the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity, further exacerbating the risk of heart disease. Smokers are 2 to 4 times more likely to develop heart disease than non-smokers.²

Respiratory Disorders

The respiratory system is directly exposed to the harmful effects of tobacco smoke, leading to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and chronic bronchitis. The tar and chemicals in tobacco smoke damage the airways and alveoli, causing inflammation, reduced lung function, and chronic respiratory symptoms. Long-term smokers often experience breathlessness, persistent coughing, and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections.

Cancer

Tobacco use is the leading cause of cancer and cancer-related deaths. It is responsible for approximately 85% of lung cancer cases, the deadliest form of cancer.³ Beyond lung cancer, tobacco use is also linked to cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, pancreas, bladder, kidney, cervix, and stomach. The carcinogens in tobacco smoke cause mutations in DNA, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and tumor development.

Impact on Oral Health

Tobacco use significantly affects oral health, causing gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancers. Smokers are more prone to periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss if untreated. The chemicals in tobacco also reduce the blood flow to the gums, impairing healing and making the mouth more susceptible to infections.

Reproductive Health Issues

Tobacco use can adversely affect reproductive health in both men and women. In women, it increases the risk of infertility, complications during pregnancy, and adverse outcomes such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth. Men who smoke may experience reduced sperm quality, erectile dysfunction, and decreased fertility.

Secondhand Smoke

The dangers of tobacco are not limited to users themselves. Secondhand smoke, which is the smoke exhaled by smokers and the smoke from the burning end of a cigarette, is a serious health hazard. Non-smokers exposed to secondhand smoke are at increased risk of heart disease, respiratory infections, and cancer. Children exposed to secondhand smoke are particularly vulnerable, experiencing higher rates of asthma, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), and ear infections. According to the World Health Organization, tobacco kills more than 8 million people per year, including an estimated 1.3 million nonsmokers who are exposed to second-hand smoke.⁴

In 2023, the Centre for Family Health Initiative, through the Community Action against Drug misuse (CAADA) project, conducted a road walk in the Dawaki, Dutse Alhaji, and Dutse Sokale areas, educating over 200 youths about the hazards of drug misuse.

The health implications of tobacco use are extensive and severe, affecting virtually every organ in the body and leading to numerous preventable diseases and deaths. Despite these known risks, tobacco addiction continues to pose a significant public health challenge. Combating this issue requires ongoing education, stronger regulatory measures, and support for individuals trying to quit. By reducing tobacco use, we can improve health outcomes and save millions of lives each year.

REFERENCES: