KATHMANDU: Tobacco and alcohol use is a significant public health issue in Nepal, contributing to a wide range of health problems, social challenges, and economic burdens.

While these substances are widely consumed, the dangers associated with their use are often underestimated or ignored.

This article explores the risks of tobacco and alcohol use in Nepal, examining their impact on individuals, families, communities, and the nation at large.

Tobacco use in Nepal

Tobacco consumption is prevalent in Nepal, with a significant portion of the population using tobacco in various forms.

Smoking cigarettes is common, but chewing tobacco and using products like khaini (a type of smokeless tobacco), mawa, and gutkha are also widely consumed, especially in rural areas.

The widespread use of tobacco products in Nepal has serious consequences for public health, both in terms of direct health impacts and the broader societal burden.

Health Risks of Tobacco Consumption

Some of the primary health risks include:

Cardiovascular Diseases: Smoking is a major contributor to cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure. As more people in Nepal start smoking at younger ages, the risk of heart disease is increasing, contributing to premature death in some communities.

Respiratory Diseases: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other respiratory diseases are highly associated with tobacco use. Smokers in Nepal are at a significantly higher risk of developing lung diseases, which are often debilitating and lead to reduced quality of life.

Mental Health: Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. In Nepal, where mental health awareness is still growing, the link between tobacco use and mental health problems is a growing concern.

Cancer: Tobacco use is strongly linked to several types of cancer, including lung, mouth, throat, esophageal, and stomach cancer. In Nepal, the number of individuals diagnosed with cancer related to tobacco use is rising, particularly among men, as smoking and smokeless tobacco consumption remain culturally ingrained.

Second-Hand Smoke: In Nepal, many non-smokers are involuntarily exposed to second-hand smoke. This includes children, pregnant women, and other vulnerable individuals who breathe in the toxins from others’ tobacco use. Studies show that second-hand smoke increases the risk of respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases, and premature birth.

Economic Impact: The financial costs of tobacco-related diseases are a significant burden on Nepal’s healthcare system. Smokers incur high medical costs for treating diseases like cancer and heart disease, which often result in long-term disability or early death.

Social Impacts of Tobacco Use in Nepal

Tobacco use also has wide-reaching social consequences:

Addiction and Dependency: Tobacco products, particularly cigarettes and smokeless varieties, are addictive. This dependency not only impacts health but also contributes to economic problems for families, as tobacco users may spend a significant portion of their income on purchasing these products.

Impact on Family Life: The adverse health effects of tobacco use have a direct impact on families. Smokers may suffer from chronic diseases, leading to increased medical expenses, loss of income, and emotional distress within the family unit.

Alcohol Consumption in Nepal

Alcohol consumption in Nepal is another widespread issue, with varying patterns across different communities. While alcohol has cultural significance in certain ethnic and religious groups, its abuse is increasingly common, leading to serious public health concerns.

Health Risks of Alcohol Consumption

The consumption of alcohol is linked to a variety of health problems, both acute and long-term. Some of the most concerning health risks in Nepal include:

Violence and Accidents: Alcohol consumption is a major contributor to violence, including domestic violence, road traffic accidents, and physical altercations. In Nepal, alcohol-fueled violence is a significant concern, especially in rural communities, where binge drinking is prevalent. Alcohol also impairs judgment, leading to risky behaviors and an increased likelihood of accidents.

Addiction: Similar to tobacco, alcohol is highly addictive. Many people in Nepal suffer from alcohol dependence, which can lead to disrupted family life, loss of employment, and long-term health problems.

Social and Behavioral Problems: Alcohol abuse is often associated with social instability, including poverty, family breakdown, and antisocial behavior. In Nepal, where traditional family structures are highly valued, the social consequences of alcohol abuse can be particularly damaging.

Mental Health Issues: Alcohol abuse is strongly linked to mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and even suicide. In Nepal, alcohol consumption is often used as a coping mechanism for stress, trauma, and socio-economic hardships, which may exacerbate existing mental health problems.

Liver Disease: Chronic alcohol use is a leading cause of liver disease, including cirrhosis and liver cancer. As alcohol consumption rises in Nepal, particularly in urban areas, cases of liver disease are becoming more common, placing a strain on the healthcare system.

Increased Risk of HIV/AIDS: Alcohol use is often linked to risky sexual behaviors, which increase the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HIV/AIDS. In Nepal, alcohol consumption is commonly associated with higher rates of unprotected sex, leading to public health concerns.

Short-Term Effects of Alcohol

Temporary effects that might be noticed while drinking alcohol include:

Changes in mood

Lowered inhibitions

Impulsive behavior

Feeling drowsy

Giddiness

Nausea and vomiting

Slurred speech

Headaches

Diarrhea

Changes in vision, hearing, and perception

Loss of coordination

Trouble focusing or making decisions

Loss of consciousness

Dehydration

These effects are typically short-lived. However, impulsiveness, loss of coordination, and changes in mood can affect judgment and behavior, leading to more far-reaching consequences, such as accidents, injuries, and regrettable decisions.

Long-Term Effects of Alcohol

Frequent alcohol consumption can lead to lasting concerns beyond mood and health. Some long-term effects include:

Insomnia

Persistent changes in mood, including anxiety and irritability

Changes in appetite and weight

A weakened immune system

Difficulty focusing on tasks

Changes in libido and sexual function

Economic and Social Consequences of Alcohol Abuse

The broader societal and economic impacts of alcohol consumption in Nepal are considerable:

Impact on Families and Communities: Alcohol abuse contributes to family dysfunction, with significant consequences for children and spouses. Domestic violence, child abuse, and neglect are often linked to alcohol consumption, undermining the social fabric of communities. In rural communities, where alcohol is often consumed in large quantities during festivals or rituals, the effects can be particularly damaging.

Public Health System Strain: The rising number of alcohol-related illnesses places a significant strain on Nepal’s healthcare system, which is already stretched in terms of resources. Hospitals and clinics are increasingly faced with treating patients for alcohol-induced diseases, such as liver cirrhosis and accidents related to alcohol consumption.

Economic Burden: The economic costs of alcohol abuse are substantial. This includes both direct costs, such as medical treatment for alcohol-related diseases, and indirect costs, such as lost productivity due to absenteeism or disability. Families and the economy bear a heavy financial burden due to alcohol use.

Government Action and Challenges

The Nepali government has taken steps to combat tobacco and alcohol use, including regulations on tobacco advertising and public smoking bans. However, enforcement of these laws remains inconsistent, particularly in rural areas. The lack of widespread public awareness campaigns and the availability of cheap, easily accessible tobacco and alcohol products contribute to the ongoing health crisis.

Additionally, there is a significant cultural aspect to tobacco and alcohol consumption in Nepal. In many communities, alcohol and tobacco use are normalized or even celebrated, making it difficult for individuals to recognize the dangers of these substances. Despite these cultural barriers, there is growing recognition of the need for education and policy changes to reduce consumption.

Conclusion

The dangers of tobacco and alcohol consumption in Nepal are grave, with rising numbers of people suffering from chronic diseases, addiction, and early death as a result of these substances. Alongside the health impact, the social and economic consequences of tobacco and alcohol abuse are vast, affecting individuals, families, and communities across the country.

Addressing the dangers of tobacco and alcohol in Nepal requires a multifaceted approach, including stronger regulatory measures, public health campaigns, and community education. By taking proactive steps to reduce consumption, Nepal can improve the health and well-being of its population, reduce the economic burden of tobacco and alcohol use, and foster a healthier society for future generations.