Tobacco addiction killing Australians by the 1000s
- Written by: The Banyans Healthcare
Despite well-known health implications, tobacco addiction remains one of the largest preventable causes of death and disease in Australia, with smoking killing an estimated 20,500 Australians a year. Sadly, smoking accounts for 13% of all deaths in Australia, yet research reveals this isn’t a deterrent for 2.1 million Australian adults who smoke daily.1
Nicotine, the addictive component in tobacco, is easily accessible in the form of cigarettes, chewing gums, and electronic cigarettes. In response to this ongoing epidemic, the Australian Government has implemented various deterrents and regulations to reduce tobacco consumption. Despite these efforts, tobacco remains widely used and is still the leading cause of cancer in Australia, accounting for almost half (44%) of Australia’s cancer burden2.
While there has been a decline in the number of smokers in Australia, individuals may initiate or continue tobacco usage under the belief that it alleviates anxiety or depression, only to discover that quitting exacerbates these mental health issues. In fact, about three in ten smokers reported they did not intend to quit, with the main reasons being they enjoyed it (61%) or because it relaxes them (40%)2.
Dr Sampath Arvapalli, Addiction Psychiatrist at The Banyans Healthcare says tobacco addiction can persist due to its chemical, behavioural, and social aspects, and treating it like any other addiction is essential.
"Tobacco instantly impacts the body, as nicotine in tobacco triggers a rapid adrenaline release, resulting in an elevated heart rate. The addictive nature of smoking continues to draw people in, despite known significant health implications. The addiction can be rooted in the habitual act of smoking, the chemical compounds in cigarettes, or the social elements associated with being a smoker.
“It's essential to approach smoking as we would any other addiction, treating it as a multifaceted problem, to increase the chances of successfully overcoming it. Identifying the underlying reasons for reaching for a cigarette is essential – whether it's the routine, comfort, habit, or nicotine craving. Adopting strategies like substituting the behaviour with healthier alternatives or using nicotine replacement products can be highly effective in helping individuals break free from the habit,” Dr Arvapalli says.
Tobacco use has been linked to various health problems, including heart disease, lung cancer, stroke, and respiratory diseases. Additionally, second-hand smoke exposure puts non-smokers at risk of similar health issues.
CEO of The Banyans Healthcare, Ruth Limkin further explains the importance of understanding one's smoking triggers, gradual reduction, and using healthier alternatives or nicotine replacement products to successfully overcome tobacco addiction.
“Dealing with nicotine and tobacco withdrawal can be a tough transition, but it's worth noting that many have faced this challenge and succeeded. The expectation to quit immediately might be daunting, hence why even initial steps towards reduction are crucial for progress.
“At The Banyans we use evidence-based psychological therapies to address foundational drivers of a person’s experience with addiction. This encourages people to understand the personal, social and cultural contributors that underpin their addictive behaviour.
“Although tobacco addiction is often overlooked as it is more visible and socially accepted than many other addictions, there is no disputing that regular tobacco use is extremely damaging to a person’s overall physical and mental health. Some people also report it can be a pathway or contributing behaviour to other addictions,” says Ms Limkin.
The Banyans Healthcare is encouraging Australians to understand the dangerous implications of tobacco addiction and the everyday causes that lead to the addiction. For more information, Australians can visit The Banyans Healthcare.
About The Banyans Healthcare
The Banyans Healthcare (consisting of The Banyans Health and Wellness, and The Banyans Health Plus) provides treatment programs that support guests to achieve long-lasting, measurable results. We help those seeking support to rediscover health and wellness following experiences of stress, anxiety, depression, substance misuse, addiction, dependency, trauma, or grief. Everything we do is based on the values of care, respect, and joy to help guests feel supported, respected, and free to explore the sense of joy that comes when you experience the fullness of life.
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