Health effects of tobacco

Approximately half a million people in Greece suffer from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, the most prevalent respiratory illness, but the majority are unaware of their condition. 

The issue was highlighted by the Hellenic Thoracic Society ahead of World COPD Day, this Wednesday. 

Berberine, a natural compound found in various herbs such as barberry, goldenseal, and European barberry (Berberis vulgaris), is showing promising results in slowing down the proliferation of lung cancer cells.

Banning the sale of tobacco to people born between 2006 and 2010 could prevent around 1.2 million deaths from lung cancer by the end of the century, said a modelling study released on Thursday.

Smoking is responsible for roughly 85 percent of all cases of lung cancer, the deadliest cancer worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

The European Commission has proposed extending smoking bans in the EU to include open public spaces. This recommendation is designed to enhance protection against "passive smoking," according to BTA.

In this exclusive interview for Novinite.com with Jorge Araya, SEE Area Director of British American Tobacco (BAT), we delve into BAT's ambitious mission to built A Better Tomorrow™. As the company navigates a transformative era marked by rapid technological advancements and shifting adult consumer preferences, BAT is dedicated to reducing the health impact of its business.

Air pollution, a leading cause of lung cancer, has seen a 3 percent increase in Istanbul in 2023 compared to the previous year.

Experts cite traffic density and the use of fossil fuels as the main contributors to this pollution

In 2023, approximately 41,000 people were diagnosed with lung cancer in Türkiye, a country already noted for its high rates of lung cancer in men.

Although Greece is one among 11 EU countries where the number of smokers has significantly decreased in recent years, more than one in three still indulge in the habit despite the outdated "fashion" of cigarettes and the proven health risks, consuming on average more cigarettes on a daily basis than other Europeans.

Preliminary data from an online survey conducted by the Medical University - Plovdiv and the Health Care Foundation reveal concerning trends in smoking habits among children in Bulgaria. According to the findings, two percent of children aged 6 to 9 smoke traditional cigarettes, while three percent use electronic cigarettes.

Türkiye has emerged as the leading nation globally for the highest number of cigarettes smoked, earning the disconcerting distinction with 17.1 cigarettes per capita per day, according to a European Union (EU) Statistics Office report.

The Hellenic Lung Cancer Society has launched an awareness campaign aptly titled "Mind the Gap," referring to the gap in information and access to health services and in prevention.