Non-smokers highly at risk from secondary smoke

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Takoradi, May 30,-GNA-Mr Edwin F. Kumbatazie, the Western Regional Health Promotion Officer said non-smokers stand a greater risk of contracting respiratory diseases, cancers and other health complications.

Mr Kumbatazie was speaking at a press briefing in Takoradi on Thursday on “World no tobacco day” which falls on May 31. It is under the theme; “Tobacco health warnings”.

He said the secondary smoke from a burning cigarette of a smoker, contains dangerous poisons in higher concentrations and any non-smoker who inhales such fumes are riskier than non-smokers.

Mr. Kumbatazie noted that the high levels of nicotine, ammonia, carbon monoxide and some carcinogens weakens the immune system, leaving the body more vulnerable to diseases including hair loss, ulcers in the mouth, rashes on the face, scalp and hands.

According to him, smoking can lead to low sperm count, cervical cancer, infertility in women, still births, low birth rate and premature menopause.

He said tobacco is the leading cause of death and that over five million people die from its effects every year.

He said death from tobacco is more than death from HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis.

He added that there should be a ban on direct and indirect tobacco advertising and that there is the need for tobacco control policy.

He called for placing picture warnings on all tobacco products to warn consumers about tobacco risks.

GNA