World No Tobacco Day

Each year World No Tobacco Day is marked on 31 May, a day to start conversations about tobacco use and raise awareness about the harmful health impacts tobacco causes, such as increasing one’s risk of developing one or more chronic health diseases.

Every year millions of people, including veterans, die preventable deaths from tobacco use. Smoking exposes users and those exposed to second hand smoke to toxic emissions that have been found to cause or contribute to the onset of cancer, heart disease, stroke and other chronic health conditions.

Nicotine is a highly addictive chemical substance found in tobacco, which is contained in cigarettes, chewing tobacco, gum, e-cigarettes and some vaping products. The addictive nature of nicotine in tobacco makes it hard for people to quit. However, support is available if you or someone you know needs help to stop smoking:

• Start by visiting Quitnow or call the Quitline on 13 78 48.
• Your GP can support you to quit and make quitting easier.
• Social support like family, friends, online groups and other veterans can help get you through the hard days.
• Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling has information and resources to help you quit available online and also provides counselling and support services. You can phone Open Arms on 1800 011 046 or visit www.openarms.gov.au.
• 'Florence' is a virtual health worker that has been programed with the latest health information from the World Health Organisation, including information to support you to quit smoking. For more information please visit  www.who.int/campaigns/Florence

E-cigarettes and vapes are emerging products in this space and need to be included as part of this important conversation on tobacco and smoking cessation. While not all e-cigarettes or vape products contain tobacco, research suggests people who have never smoked but use e-cigarettes and/or vapes are three times more likely to smoke compared to non-smokers.

The aerosolised liquid inhaled from these products can cause lung injury, poisoning, burns, and seizures, alongside increased risk of addiction. Alarmingly, these products are popular with younger, school-aged Australians.

Quitting is not easy, but it's worth the effort for the sake of your health and those around you. If you want to stop smoking the best time to quit is NOW. Make today the first day of no tobacco – every day.

DVA supports eligible veterans who have been diagnosed with one or more chronic health conditions through the Coordinated Veterans’ Care (CVC) Program. More information about the CVC Program is available on the DVA website.