“Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” –Theodore Roosevelt.

TOBACCO CONSUMPTION AND YOUTH
Tobacco use among youth is increasing in epidemic proportions across the world. It is estimated that the vast majority of tobacco users start using tobacco products well before the age of 18 years. Globally, one in every 10 girls and one in every five boys, aged 13 to 15 years, use tobacco. It is further projected that current trends of tobacco use would result in the deaths of 250 million children and young people over time, most of them in developing countries. Tobacco use during adolescence and early adulthood has profound public health implications. Adolescent onset tobacco use leads to ‘accelerated dependency’ within a short period from first exposure. In addition, it has been consistently linked to heart disease, cancers, and premature mortality. Tobacco use among youth has also been well recognised as one of the behaviours that defy social norms. The tobacco use situation in Pakistan is complex owing to the availability of various forms of tobacco. Also, adolescence and early adulthood, i.e., 15 to 24 years, are considered to be the most susceptible phase of life for initiation of tobacco use in Pakistan. Based on available evidence, it is estimated that five per cent to 25 per cent of Pakistani adolescents currently use or have ever used tobacco. Even though smokeless tobacco is used less commonly, high rates of its use have been reported in Pakistan among adolescents aged 13 to 15 years (15 per cent of boys and five per cent of girls). Due to the enormous psychosocial and health effects of tobacco on youth, it is pertinent to understand its burden along with sociodemographic factors for formulating effective tobacco control measures targeting them.
Amjad Ali,
Karachi.

THE POWER OF SOCIAL MEDIA
Social media plays a vital role in today’s world. Nowadays, people lead facilitated lives thanks to social media, which serves as a valuable resource for knowledge and information. Platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, YouTube, and many others contribute significantly to people’s daily lives by keeping them updated on day-to-day happenings worldwide.

In the past, individuals used to send letters to their relatives, a process that took months to reach the desired destination. However, in the present day, peo-ple can connect with their relatives instantly from the comfort of their homes. Moreover, notable authors share their profound thoughts on social media platforms like YouTube. It serves as a source where students can access a wealth of educational content. Today, students no longer need to attend academies for their classes as they can find lectures on platforms like YouTube.

Additionally, social media provides a great platform for everyone, allowing the public to express their views on government decisions. People can inform the concerned authorities about their feelings and satisfaction regarding these decisions. It is crucial for individuals to use social media in an appropriate way to maximise the benefits it offers.
Zehra,
Karachi.