Tobbaco, which kills over five million people every year, could kill nearly 2.5 million women tobacco users by 2030.
Out of these 2.5 million women, three fourth would belong to low income and middle income countries. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), currently women are considered as one of the biggest target groups by tobacco industry due to their growing spending power. May 31 is marked as Would No Tobacco Day.
The WHO, which is focusing on effect of women’s health due to tobacco usage, said urgent action needs to be taken to save lives, which would otherwise be lost to tobacco. As per WHO figures, tobacco use could kill more than eight million people by 2030, including 2.5 million women.
Outlining the health hazards of tobacco, especially to women, WHO said women who smoke are more likely to experience infertility and delays in conceiving.
Maternal smoking during pregnancy increases the risks of premature delivery, stillbirth and newborn death and may cause a reduction in breast milk.
There is also a possible link between active smoking and premenopausal breast cancer.
The WHO and the Indian government have decided to focus on marketing of tobacco to women this year.