Question

You would have seen many women smoking beedi or cigarette. Some may even be pregnant. Discuss with two such women the harmful effects of tobacco use among women, especially the pregnant women.

Answer 1

Points to discuss with the women:

1. Tobacco affects women more seriously than is commonly believed. Women who smoke are more likely to face infertility and delays in conceiving.
2. Smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of premature delivery, stillbirth, and even death of the baby.
3. The chemicals in tobacco cross the placenta and harm the unborn baby. Babies may be born with low birth weight and poor development.
4. Smoking increases the risk of cancer of the cervix, lung cancer, and oral cancer. Smokeless tobacco products like gutkha, khaini, and pan masala also cause oral cancer.
5. Nicotine raises blood pressure, carbon monoxide is poisonous, and tar damages the lungs. Smoking also reduces the oxygen supply to the baby.
6. 'Light' or 'low tar' cigarettes are not safe. Women who smoke them often inhale more deeply, so they absorb more nicotine.
7. The best step is to quit tobacco completely. Support from family, friends, and a doctor helps a woman quit and protect both herself and her baby.