My late uncle, who I thought was utterly invincible. My cousin, a nurse who has trouble speaking due to radiation treatments for her throat, and can now only work part time. My robust, 32-year old neighbor who lived four doors down, and who very, very suddenly left his young wife a widow. And many millions more.
All have had their lives cut short way too soon, or their health essentially ruined by smoking. And I know others too.
Addiction, disease, and sometimes death. Given the serious and obvious health risks - and also perhaps because of how many people I know who have been affected -- I'm amazed that so many people still smoke.
As someone who was drawn to the pharmaceutical industry because of a desire to help people live healthier lives, I know how important it is to educate and encourage them to take specific, positive steps. GSK has a number of products, educational patient programs, and websites--such as www.Way2Quit.com--to help tobacco users kick the habit. But what else can we do to stop the damage that tobacco does in our communities? And what can you do to help?
The World Health Organization hosts World No Tobacco Day annually on May 31st. The goal is to draw attention to the harmful effects of tobacco, and many organizations across the globe will be helping to spread the message. That's great. But let's also keep in mind that one of the best ways to help someone stop smoking is to be courageous enough to talk to them one-on-one.
Take up the call, and commit to asking a loved one who uses tobacco to decide it's time to kick the habit. They may not listen, and your efforts may have absolutely no major impact on their life whatsoever.
But then again, just think about it...what if they do listen, and decide to quit? Are you willing to take a chance?
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