Traditional approaches to curb smoking are no longer enough as more youngsters are getting influenced and hooked on nicotine at an early age, says a lecturer and family medicine specialist.

Prof Dr Mohd Nazri Mohd Daud of Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) said modern approaches such as digital media and artificial intelligence must be introduced and explored to send a clear message to the young and discourage them from picking up the habit.

Hospitals and other agencies should organise more programmes to help people quit smoking, while educating the public on the economic impact of smoking and related illnesses or issues should be enhanced, he added.

Speaking at a recent World No Tobacco Day event here, the head of Family Medicine at UMS' Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences said smoking, vaping and tobacco usage remains a threat to public health.

He said events such as World No Tobacco Day help increase awareness on the dangers and negative effects of smoking, but greater involvement from families and communities was needed.

For example, he said, they could promote healthy lifestyles and provide a healthier environment for children.

Dr Nazri also pointed out that children with parents or relatives who smoke were more likely to cultivate the habit.

In addition to increasing the risk of chronic illness including heart attacks, stroke, cancer and lung ailments, he said nicotine use at a young age could also stunt brain development.

He said the main ingredient in cigarettes and vapes, which is nicotine, promotes addiction and affects emotion, actions and the user’s anxiety levels.

The National Health and Morbidity Survey 2023 showed the number of smokers in Malaysia at 19% or 4.8 million, a high figure with serious implications for the country's health system.

According to World Health Organization (WHO) data, smokers risk losing up to 10 years of their lifespan because of tobacco-related health complications.

World No Tobacco Day is observed on May 31 annually.

Source: The Star