Anti-Tobacco Campaign Awareness Month

May | South Africa

In South Africa, Anti-Tobacco Campaign Month is observed during May, with World No Tobacco Day commemorated on May 31st. This campaign aims to raise awareness about the dangers of smoking and tobacco use, while promoting quitting and healthier alternatives.

World No Tobacco Day was created in 1987 by the World Health Organization (WHO) to draw global attention to the tobacco epidemic and the preventable death and disease it causes.

Health Risks of Tobacco Use

May serves as a dedicated time to highlight the harmful effects of tobacco, which include:

• Lung cancer

• Chronic lung diseases

• Heart disease

• Nicotine addiction

Nicotine, the addictive substance in tobacco, causes your body and brain to crave it. This leads to dependence, making it hard to quit.

Tobacco Industry Tactics

The tobacco and nicotine industries use carefully engineered products and deceptive marketing strategies to target new users—especially youth.

The theme for World No Tobacco Day 2025 is:

🛑 “Unmasking the Appeal”

Appealing flavours and additives often mask the harshness of tobacco, making it easier to start and harder to quit. Stronger regulation is essential to protect future generations.

Tips to Help You Quit Smoking

Here are some practical strategies for cutting down or quitting:

• Set a quit date – Pick a date and commit to it.

• Identify triggers – Know what makes you want to smoke and plan alternatives.

• Remove smoking cues – Get rid of cigarettes, lighters, and ashtrays.

• Handle cravings – Try sugar-free gum, chewable items, or drink water.

• Explore medication options – Speak to your doctor about tools like bupropion.

• Stay active – Exercise can reduce stress and cravings.

• Seek professional support – Organizations like CANSA or GoSmokeFree offer help.

• Join a support group – Connect with others who are quitting.

Sources:
Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA)
Department of Health – Republic of South Africa
World Health Organization (WHO)