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Smoking remains one of the leading causes of preventable deaths in Türkiye, with approximately 100,000 people dying each year from smoking-related causes.
This means that nearly 300 people lose their lives every single day due to smoking-related illnesses.
Associate Professor Dr. Hasan Volkan Kara, a member of the Scientific Board of the Green Crescent (Yesilay) and a faculty member at Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, emphasized that these deaths are largely preventable.
“Smoking is not only a personal health issue; it also affects entire families and communities. Protecting children and young people from nicotine addiction must be at the heart of our public health policies,” he said.
According to Dr. Kara, tobacco and nicotine use remain a global epidemic. “There are about 1 billion smokers worldwide, and evidence shows that one in every two smokers will die from nicotine-related illnesses,” he stated. Without stronger prevention and education efforts, hundreds of millions of smokers may face premature death in the coming decades.
Worldwide, smoking-related illnesses claim around 8 million lives each year, including at least 1.3 million non-smokers affected by secondhand smoke.
“These deaths are avoidable. By reducing exposure to tobacco products and strengthening public health measures, we can save millions of lives,” Kara added.
While traditional cigarettes remain the leading cause of smoking-related deaths, new products such as electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco devices have become increasingly popular, particularly among young people.
Kara warned against the misconception that these products are safer alternatives.
“These products do not produce harmless vapor as some claim,” he said. “They release toxic aerosols containing nicotine and other harmful substances, which continue to damage the lungs, heart, and immune system. Their primary purpose is to sustain nicotine addiction,” Kara stressed.
“There is no safe or healthy way to consume nicotine—all forms are harmful.”
Kara also highlighted the role of the tobacco industry in targeting children and adolescents. “The industry actively markets new nicotine products to young people, exploiting their curiosity and vulnerability,” he said. “Preventing youth from starting to smoke is the most effective long-term strategy in reducing smoking-related deaths.”
In Türkiye, public awareness campaigns, school education programs, and community activities led by organizations such as Yesilay play a key role in educating young people about the dangers of nicotine. These initiatives aim to prevent the onset of addiction before it starts, especially in adolescents and teenagers.
For those already struggling with nicotine addiction, Kara urged them to seek professional help. “Yesilay Counseling Centers (YEDAM) provides free counseling and treatment services for anyone looking to quit smoking. The 115 YEDAM hotline is also available for guidance and support.”
Kara emphasized that quitting is not only possible but life-saving. “Every day someone decides to quit is the first day of a healthier life. Support is available, and it can make all the difference.”
Dr. Kara also highlighted the dangers of passive smoke exposure. Non-smokers can suffer serious health consequences simply by being in environments where smoking occurs.
“Secondhand smoke exposure contributes to millions of deaths worldwide each year. Children, pregnant women, and other vulnerable populations are at particular risk,” he said.
He also mentioned third-hand smoke, which occurs when toxic substances from cigarette smoke cling to clothes, furniture, and other surfaces, continuing to pose health risks long after smoking has stopped in a space.
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