By Adam Buyinza Luzindana
Uganda’s youth are facing a grave threat, and it’s not just a passing phase. The alarming rise in cigarette smoking, cocaine, marijuana, and shisha use among young people has become a pressing concern. As the NRM Government grapples with this issue, it’s essential to shine a light on the devastating consequences of smoking and advocate for collective action to curb this dangerous trend. Youth leaders from the government and private sector must invest a lot in fighting smoking that is rampant in schools, communities and bars.
Politicians and aspiring politicians should integrate anti-smoking in their manifestos otherwise we are sitting on a time bomb. Smoking is a ticking time bomb, and its effects are far-reaching and deadly. Cigarette smoke contains over 7,000 chemicals, many of which are toxic and carcinogenic. The consequences of smoking are many but i will point out the major and deadly consequences for you:
It’s the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide, accounting for 1.8 million deaths annually. Smoking damages the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and chronic bronchitis are all linked to smoking.
Smoking during pregnancy puts unborn babies at risk.
Nicotine, the primary psychoactive substance in tobacco, is highly addictive, leading to a lifelong struggle and unproductive expenditures.
What Must Be Done:
To combat the scourge of smoking among Uganda’s youth, a multi-faceted approach is necessary:
Enact and enforce comprehensive tobacco control legislation, including bans on advertising, promotion, and sponsorship.
Raise taxes on tobacco products to make them less affordable and generate revenue for anti-smoking initiatives.
Launch public awareness campaigns, school programs, and community outreach initiatives to educate youth about the dangers of smoking.
Provide access to counseling, nicotine replacement therapy, and support groups for those seeking to quit.
Encourage engagement in sports, arts, and other activities that promote healthy lifestyles.
Engage parents and guardians in anti-smoking efforts, empowering them to set a good example and monitor their children’s behavior.
Organize community events, rallies, and advocacy campaigns to raise awareness and build momentum against smoking.
Ensure access to healthcare services, including counseling and treatment, for those affected by smoking-related illnesses.
The fight against smoking requires a collective effort from the government, civil society, parents, and youth themselves. By acknowledging the dangers of smoking and working together, we can create a healthier, smoke-free future for Uganda’s youth. Let us join forces to break the deadly grip of smoking and empower our young people to make informed choices about their health and well-being.
Buyinza Adam Luzindana is the Team Leader of Public Opinions a field based Research, investment advisory, Public Awareness and information dissemination Firm. He served as a member of the National Executive Council of the National Resistance Movement (NEC) serving as the Regional Chairman for NRM Youth League Kampala Region. Web: www.publicopinions.net. Tel:+256701992426.(For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [whatsapp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).