Tobacco use in Thai society: A reflection of the relationship between individuals and social structures
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Abstract
The situation of tobacco consumption in Thai society through an integrated perspective, linking socio-cultural contexts, toxicological components, and life-stage health impacts. The study identifies four evolutionary eras: traditional (social tool), industrial (mass commodity), control (public policy), and innovation (e-cigarettes). Toxicologically, combustible cigarettes contain over 5,000 chemicals, including tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs) and heavy metals that cause DNA damage. While e-cigarettes reduce certain toxins, they trigger epigenetic changes and accelerated biological lung aging. Life-stage analysis shows that early initiation (ages 6–17) significantly increases mortality risk and impairs organ development. In adulthood, tobacco use drives cardiovascular diseases, while in the elderly, it is linked to cognitive decline and oral health issues. The synthesis reveals that smoking is not merely a biological addiction but an outcome of interactions between individuals and social structures that shape consumption norms. The study concludes that future tobacco control measures must shift from a purely health-centric focus toward understanding the social dynamics and marketing of novel tobacco products. Developing such responsive policies is essential for creating sustainable control frameworks and protecting the health of the Thai population effectively.
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