Image Source: Premier Health
South Africa – Smoking remains a significant contributor to various health issues, with its prevalence in South African society higher compared to other countries, as numerous studies suggest.
Peter Ucko, the CEO of Tobacco, Alcohol, and Gambling Advisory (TAG), attributes this continued prevalence primarily to the tactics employed by the tobacco industry and the pervasive influence of social media.
The shift from traditional advertising and marketing of tobacco products to digital platforms has made it difficult for regulators to monitor and curb its usage and promotion. According to Ucko, the tobacco industry glamorises smoking through these platforms, using online personalities and influencers to make it attractive and alluring to people.
“If you go into YouTube, this is all you see: huge plumes of dense smoke all over the place and young people blowing smoke rings and playing games … It’s glamorised on social media and made to look as if it’s nice. It’s not nice. It’s unsafe. It’s dangerous.”
Moreover, there is a growing trend where people believe that e-cigarettes, vapes, and shisha are less dangerous than traditional cigarettes. This is a misconception. Ucko argues that these alternatives are hazardous and pose significant health risks.
“I think people are not sufficiently knowledgeable about the harms it’ll cause, and they also buy into the lie of fake news. For example, these hubbly bubblies, shishas, water pipes, whatever you call them. In theory, people believe that the water in the system filters out the poisons and particulates, which are little bits of hard chemicals. But it’s an illusion.”
How Can We Stop South Africans from Smoking?
The fight against smoking in South Africa is challenging and complex. The negative impacts on the health of individuals, their families, and society stress the importance of the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Bill.
However, Ucko provided an update on the bill’s progress, stating that it has been slow for various reasons. According to him, the public hearings process has been heavily influenced by representatives of the tobacco industry and individuals making statements in favour of smoking.
Additionally, the recent elections have further delayed the process, as a new parliament and health committee still need to be appointed, potentially prolonging the bill’s consideration.
“I keep blaming the tobacco industry. They make a product that kills their customers. But I have seen members of parliament arrive at public hearings in the luxury motor vehicles of tobacco industry representatives. They influence by giving money to political parties, which is another thing the bill we’re discussing now aims to stop.”
Despite these challenges, the advice remains consistent. If you’re a smoker, quit smoking rather than merely attempting to stop, as the negative impacts far outweigh the temporary pleasure.
“There might be difficulties. You might have withdrawal symptoms, a desire to smoke, to get nicotine into your body, to feed your addiction. But those desires become weaker and weaker.”
