New Delhi: As India observes No Smoking Day, health experts and researchers are drawing attention to a long-standing debate: Are beedis more harmful than cigarettes?
While both forms of tobacco consumption pose serious health risks, recent findings suggest that beedis may be significantly more dangerous due to their composition and lack of filtration.
Cigarettes, commonly associated with urban smoking habits, typically contain a filter that reduces the amount of smoke and harmful chemicals entering the lungs. Beedis, on the other hand, are hand-rolled in tendu leaves and lack any form of filtration, allowing more concentrated smoke to reach the lungs with each puff.
Why Beedis Are Considered More Harmful
According to health experts cited in the report, beedis deliver higher levels of tar, nicotine, and carbon monoxide compared to cigarettes. The absence of a filter means that smokers inhale unfiltered smoke, which increases the risk of lung damage, respiratory diseases, and cancer.
Moreover, beedis are often smoked more intensely and frequently, especially in rural areas where they are cheaper and more accessible than cigarettes. This affordability has led to widespread use, particularly among low-income groups, further exacerbating public health concerns.
Health Risks Associated With Smoking
Whether it’s a beedi or a cigarette, smoking is linked to a range of life-threatening conditions, including:
Lung cancer
Heart disease
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Stroke
Reduced immunity and fertility
The World Health Organization’s (WHO) has consistently warned that tobacco use remains one of the leading causes of preventable death worldwide, and India is among the countries with the highest number of tobacco-related fatalities.
Public Awareness And Policy Push
On No Smoking Day, health organisations are urging the government to strengthen anti-tobacco campaigns, especially in rural areas where beedi consumption is rampant. Experts recommend higher taxation on beedis, stricter packaging regulations, and community-level education to reduce tobacco use.
The comparison between beedis and cigarettes is not just about health — it’s also about social awareness, accessibility, and policy intervention.
As India continues its fight against tobacco, understanding the greater risks posed by beedis is crucial for shaping effective public health strategies.