Risks of Smoking: Health, Family, and Long-Term Impact

Smoking continues to be one of the most serious public health challenges in Indonesia and around the world. Despite global progress in tobacco control, smoking remains deeply embedded in daily life for millions.

The consequences go far beyond individual health. Tobacco use contributes to rising disease burdens, financial hardship, and long-term impacts on families and communities.

Whether you're a smoker, have loved ones who smoke, or are exposed to secondhand smoke, it’s important to understand the full scope of risk. This article outlines the health, economic, and societal impacts of smoking and explains how Bali International Hospital supports prevention and care.

Health Risks of Smoking

Tobacco use is a leading cause of preventable death worldwide. Smoking is directly linked to:

• Stroke and heart disease
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Lung, throat, and mouth cancers
• Weakened immune response and delayed wound healing

According to a 2020 study published in the Journal of Global Health, the all-cause mortality rate among smokers is 1.48 times higher than that of non-smokers. Secondhand smoke exposure also causes serious harm.

In Indonesia, 52,700 people died in 2019 due to illnesses caused by secondhand smoke. Children, pregnant women, and older adults are especially vulnerable.

In addition to physical harm, smoking may also contribute to mental health challenges, such as increased anxiety or dependence cycles. Quitting smoking often leads to better sleep, improved breathing, and reduced stress levels; benefits that can be felt within weeks.

Smoking Prevalence and Demographics in Indonesia

Indonesia has one of the highest smoking rates globally. According to the 2022 Tobacco Atlas:

• 40.3% of the population aged 15 and older are smokers
• Among adult men, the smoking rate is 71.2%
• Tobacco use among women remains lower but is rising
• Passive smoking continues to affect non-smokers in homes and public spaces
• Youth smoking remains a growing issue due to marketing, accessibility, and social exposure

Quitting smoking can be challenging, but professional medical support, counseling, and structured programs (available through many healthcare providers) can significantly improve the chances of success. Public awareness campaigns and school-based education may also help reduce smoking uptake among adolescents.

Regulatory Environment

Indonesia’s tobacco control policies remain limited when compared to global standards:

• Indonesia is not a signatory to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC)
• Advertising and sponsorship regulations are weak, especially in digital and youth-targeted media
• Graphic health warnings on cigarette packaging remain limited in size and visibility
• Public smoking bans are inconsistently enforced

Although several municipalities have introduced local regulations, national-level enforcement and public health campaigns are still needed to shift long-term behaviors. Healthcare providers such as our international hospital continue to fill this gap through:

• Direct support
• Education
• Prevention services

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the risk in smoke?

Tobacco smoke contains more than 7,000 chemicals, including at least 70 known carcinogens. These damage the lungs, heart, and blood vessels.

What are risk factors for smoking?

Common risk factors include:

• Social pressure
• Stress
• Cultural normalization
• Low cost and accessibility
• Early exposure

What is the highest risk of smoking?

The most serious risks include:

• Lung cancer
• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Premature death

Smokers are also at higher risk for chronic respiratory conditions.

What are the health risks of smoking?

Smoking weakens nearly every system in the body. It reduces oxygen flow, impairs healing, and increases the risk of chronic illnesses such as:

• Diabetes
• Cancer
• Cardiovascular disease

Why Quitting Smoking Matters

Quitting smoking improves your health from the first day you stop. Over time, these benefits continue to grow:

• Within 20 minutes, heart rate and blood pressure begin to normalize
• After 1 year, the risk of coronary heart disease is cut in half
• Over time, your risk of stroke, cancer, and respiratory illness significantly decreases

Quitting also improves the health of family members by reducing their exposure to secondhand smoke. It frees up financial resources and protects the environment by reducing plastic and chemical waste.

At our hospital, patients can access:

• Medical consultations for smoking-related conditions
• Risk screening and health evaluations
• Lifestyle coaching and follow-up care
• Multilingual staff and private consultations for local and international patients

It's never too late to quit; and with expert support, your success is within reach.