How big is the smoking problem in Mexico?

Tobacco use is a public health problem in Mexico that costs the government a lot of money and takes the lives of many Mexicans. Here are the numbers.

Specialists from the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) reaffirm their commitment to combating the harmful effects of tobacco, taking various actions to help reduce and prevent tobacco use. This habit is related to 8 million deaths annually worldwide, a figure that in Mexico translates to about 63 thousand deaths per year. .

The coordinator of Medical Programs at the Mental Health and Addictions Coordination Office, Dr. Hugo Aguilar Talamantes, explained that the IMSS has implemented the 100% Smoke-Free Spaces policy; through the PrevenIMSS program, preventive interventions, education, guidance, and workshops are provided for the general population .

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He added that through the Safe and Healthy Work Environments (ELSSA) program, the IMSS brings prevention and health promotion services to the workplace, where medical and nursing staff diagnose tobacco and other substance use, allowing workers to be referred to specialized services in a timely manner.

He explained that within its scope of responsibility, Social Security collaborates with other government agencies through the SiESABI platform for ongoing staff training on issues related to tobacco use, as well as for the implementation of the MHGAP course, aimed at primary care professionals for the detection of mental health problems and addictions.

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The mental health specialist indicated that The IMSS has a wide range of psychotherapeutic and pharmacological interventions for the treatment of problems such as codependency due to tobacco use. .

He stressed that, In 2024, the IMSS provided more than a thousand consultations related to tobacco use. , at the Primary Care Level, specialized services, emergencies, and hospitalizations, in addition to implementing preventive and rehabilitation interventions related to smoke exposure, counseling on tobacco abuse, and guidance on family history of consumption.

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Dr. Aguilar Talamantes explained that Smoking-related diseases include strokes, brain hemorrhages, bronchitis, asthma, and cancer; in addition to promoting the development of complications in diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. .

On the other hand, Nicotine, present in cigarettes, produces a sensation of pleasure in the brain that can lead to dependence. , especially in people who face altered emotional states or anxiety, making it difficult to abandon and increasing weight and eating problems .

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He recommended that people avoid tobacco use , seek professional help if they experience signs of dependence, surround themselves with a healthy support network, maintain active lifestyle habits, and visit their Family Medicine Unit for guidance and timely care.

With information from the IMSS

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