PESHAWAR
\nAs millions of Muslims across the globe observe Ramazan, the holy month of fasting, it is not just a time for spiritual reflection, prayer, and self-discipline but also a perfect opportunity to break free from harmful habits such as smoking, naswar addiction, and narcotic use.
\nThis sacred month, renowned for its emphasis on self-restraint, patience and mindfulness, has become a beacon for many seeking to rid themselves of life-threatening addictions including heroine, hashish, cigarettes and naswar.
\nMedical professionals have highlighted how fasting during Ramazan plays a pivotal role in helping individuals conquer dependence on nicotine, naswar, and other substances.
\nAccording to Prof Dr Malik Riaz, a medical specialist at Government Hospital Pabbi Nowshera, the long hours of fasting aid in detoxifying the body, making it easier for individuals to quit harmful habits.
\n\u201cWhen the body goes without food and water for extended periods, it begins a process of detoxification that can help individuals break free from their addictions,\u201d said Dr. Riaz.
\nThe absence of smoking and snuff during the day, combined with the powerful motivation to maintain spiritual purity, helps to gradually diminish cravings. The holistic approach of Ramazan, focusing on both physical and mental well-being, significantly benefits those looking to quit smoking or using other addictive substances.
\nAs such, many use this blessed month to adopt healthier lifestyles, leaving behind cigarettes, naswar, and even narcotic substances.
\nFor people grappling with addiction, Ramazan also sees an increase in participation in counseling and support groups. These programs, which help individuals quit smoking or naswar, often gain more traction during the holy month.
\nZeeshan Khan, a 32-year-old resident of Nowshera district, is one of the many who have successfully quit naswar during Ramazan. He recounted how he had been addicted to naswar since 2010, initially using it as a way to cope with the stress of his MA exams. Despite numerous attempts to quit over the years, his addiction had led to significant dental problems, including the loss of a tooth. This Ramazan, however, he managed to overcome his addiction with the help of his determination and spiritual commitment.
\n\u201cI have already lost a tooth due to continuous use of naswar, and I am relieved that I have quit this harmful habit,\u201d said Zeeshan. He expressed his regret over the negative impact of naswar on his personal and professional life, particularly the unpleasant habit of spitting that affected his social image.
\nZeeshan\u2019s story highlights the physical, emotional, and social consequences of this addiction.
\nDental professionals also weigh in on the dangers of naswar and declared that Ramazan was most ideal month to quit smoking.
\nDr. Tahir Khan, a senior dental surgeon, noted that the extensive damage to Zeeshan\u2019s tooth required its extraction, as a root canal was not a viable option.
\nHe emphasized that naswar\u2019s harmful effects extend far beyond oral health, leading to issues such as gum infections, jaw complications, and in some severe cases, even facial disfigurement. It also raises the risk of heart disease and oral cancers.
\nAccording to Dr. Tahir Khan, the link between naswar use and oral cancers is particularly alarming. Pakistan has one of the highest incidences of lip and oral cavity cancers, with around 11,000 new cases reported every year in men, making it the most common cancer type in the country.
\nThe root causes, he said, include poor dental hygiene, tobacco use, viral infections, and, in some cases, the use of harmful substances like naswar and cigarettes.
\nNaswar remains prevalent in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where approximately 70 percent of the population uses it without fully understanding the severe health consequences. This smokeless tobacco, often made from fresh tobacco leaves and various chemicals, contributes to a host of health problems, including cancers, respiratory issues, and cardiovascular diseases.
\nDespite these dangers, the demand for naswar, particularly from regions like Dera Ismail Khan, Bannu, and Mardan, remains high, with exports reaching neighboring provinces like Punjab and Sindh.
\nThe economic impact of naswar is significant as well, with an estimated market value of around Rs 6 billion annually.
\nDr. Muhammad Naeem, a former chairman of the Economics Department at the University of Peshawar, suggested that naswar should be brought under the tax net, similar to cigarettes, to curb its usage and increase awareness of its health risks.
\nIn 2022, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government attempted to levy taxes on naswar, raising the tax to Rs 5 per kg, but this decision was later reversed due to public pressure. Nevertheless, the move highlighted the growing concern over the harmful impact of naswar on public health.
\nTo tackle the rising addiction to drugs and naswar, the government has established 12 detoxification and rehabilitation centers across the province.
\nThese centers aim to help individuals struggling with addiction, offering treatment and support for those looking to break free from harmful habits.
\nAdditionally, under the \u201cDrugs Free Peshawar\u201d program, naswar addicts are also being rehabilitated.
\nSyed Imran Shah, Director of the Social Welfare Department, stressed the importance of raising awareness about the dangers of naswar through mass media campaigns.
\nHe emphasized the active role that religious scholars and civil society must play in educating the public about the hazardous effects of naswar and other harmful substances.
\nExperts said Ramazan serves as a powerful motivator for many individuals looking to quit smoking, naswar, and other drugs.
\nWhether through individual resolve, family support, or community efforts, this holy month offers a unique opportunity for change. Experts encourage smokers and addicts to use the momentum of Ramazan to break free from addiction and improve their health and well-being, reminding everyone that it is never too late to make a positive change.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
PESHAWAR As millions of Muslims across the globe observe Ramazan, the holy month of fasting, it is not just a time for spiritual reflection, prayer, and self-discipline but also a perfect opportunity to break free from harmful habits such as smoking, naswar addiction, and narcotic use. This sacred month, renowned for its emphasis on self-restraint, […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[7],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-467596","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","6":"category-peshawar"},"yoast_head":"\n