Online Reporter
Disability Issues-Dr Christine Peta
ON May 31 each year, the world observes World No Tobacco Day, a commemoration initiated in 1988 by the World Health Assembly.
This day is dedicated to raising global awareness on the impact of the tobacco epidemic, which leads to millions of deaths, diseases and disabilities worldwide.
While tobacco offers certain benefits, including its use in pesticides, medical applications and contribution to employment and economic growth, the World Health Organisation (WHO) identifies the tobacco epidemic as one of the most significant public health threats globally.
More than eight million people die annually from tobacco use; over seven million of these deaths are from direct tobacco use and approximately 1,3 million are non-smokers exposed to second-hand smoke.
This article, however, focuses on the critical link between tobacco use and disability.
Research shows that tobacco use, encompassing both smoking and chewing tobacco, can cause or worsen various disabilities.
For instance, tobacco smoke can exacerbate asthma symptoms, making it harder for individuals with this respiratory condition to manage their health and maintain physical activity.
Ironically, physical activity is crucial for improving strength, balance and flexibility, thereby reducing the risk of falls and injuries — common causes of disability.
Regular exercise is a proactive approach to promoting health and preventing the onset or progression of disabling conditions. Furthermore, tobacco use contributes to heart disease and stroke, both significant causes of disability.
Disabilities linked to heart disease can see increased complications due to tobacco use.
Globally, stroke is the sixth most common cause of disability.
Nearly half of all stroke survivors experience moderate to severe disabilities.
Tobacco use is also strongly associated with various cancers.
They include lung, throat and mouth cancer.
Disabilities resulting from cancer treatments can be heightened by continued tobacco use.
Studies indicate that individuals with disabilities have higher rates of tobacco use compared to those without such conditions.
Some may turn to tobacco as a coping mechanism for chronic pain, stigma, discrimination, patronising attitudes and social isolation.
Being an adult with disabilities is generally more challenging than being an adult without such conditions.
For some, tobacco use may offer temporary relief from psychological distress, leading them to smoke continuously instead of pursuing lasting life changes.
People who use tobacco face a 30 percent to 40 percent higher risk of developing diabetes than non-tobacco users.
Tobacco use is also linked to a greater risk of complications in individuals with diabetes, such as neuropathy and cardiovascular issues, which can further impede their ability to manage existing disabilities.
Zimbabwe’s National Disability Policy mandates public health campaigns specifically addressing the unique challenges faced by persons with disabilities, including health risks related to tobacco use.
To align with this, tobacco cessation programmes must be accessible to persons with disabilities through various formats (for example, in-person, online and telephonic), with accommodation provided for those with mobility, sensory or mental impairments.
Smoke-free policies in public spaces, including facilities that serve persons with disabilities, should be designed and implemented to reduce exposure to second-hand smoke and foster healthier environments.
Organisations of persons with disabilities and community-based organisations must create local interventions focusing on tobacco cessation for persons with disabilities, incorporating peer support and education tailored for their specific needs.
Additionally, health professional education should incorporate the needs of patients with disabilities concerning tobacco cessation strategies to improve support within the healthcare delivery system.
Finally, research is paramount to enhance understanding of the barriers to cessation faced by persons with disabilities and to develop effective, tailored interventions for this segment of the population.
Dr Christine Peta is a disability, public health, policy, international development and research expert. She can be contacted on: [email protected]
Tinaye Agere