We Should Ban Alcohol and Smoking

 

 

          Have you ever stopped to consider the alarming impact alcohol and smoking have on our health and cognitive function? While these habits are often seen as a sedative and stress release, it's the much broader consequences that cannot be ignored. Alcohol consumption and smoking have long existed in society, with many individuals relying on them as coping mechanisms for a variety of reasons. However, it is imperative to evaluate the detrimental effects that these substances have on our overall well-being. Given the strong evidence highlighting the negative health implications and impaired cognitive function caused by alcohol and smoking, it is imperative that we implement a ban on these substances to improve public health. Alcohol consumption poses significant health risks, including liver damage and increased susceptibility to chronic diseases. 

        Kemenkes( 2015: 11) argues that ultimately, when the amount of alcohol consumed is large enough, it can suppress several organ functions and in severe conditions can lead to death. (Kemenkes, 2015:11). This is in line with medical knowledge on the negative effects of alcohol on the human body. Excessive alcohol consumption can cause damage to vital organs such as the liver, pancreas, kidneys, and digestive system. In addition, alcohol can also affect the immune system. If a person experiences alcohol poisoning or severe alcohol-induced liver damage, his or her life could be endangered. Therefore, it is important to limit alcohol consumption and follow recommended health guidelines to maintain good health and prevent serious negative impacts. On the other hand, some argue that moderate alcohol consumption may provide cardiovascular benefits, such as reducing the risk of heart disease. 

        While there is limited evidence suggesting potential benefits, the risks associated with alcohol consumption far outweigh any possible benefits. Safer alternatives for heart health are available without carrying the same risks as alcohol. According National Institute Of Health (2014) Smoking is also a factor that affects cognitive function (National Institute of Health, 2014). This smoking activity has detrimental effects on cognitive function, especially memory and learning ability. Research has consistently shown the negative impact of smoking on memory, attention, and cognitive flexibility. Long-term smoking can lead to decreased cognitive function and an increased risk of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. According Kemenkes (2019) Alzheimer's is the sixth leading cause of death among all adults and the leading cause for those aged 65 years or older. Alzheimer's disease sufferers were estimated in 2013 in Indonesia to reach one million people. ( Kemenkes, 2019). Some individuals however argue that smoking provides a sense of relaxation and releases stress, serving as a coping mechanism for anxiety and tension. 

           While smoking may temporarily reduce stress for some individuals, the long-term consequences for cognitive function and overall health far outweigh the perceived benefits. Safer and healthier stress management strategies should be encouraged. The availability of alternative methods for stress relief and medication weakens the argument that alcohol and smoking are used as calming agents by some people. Many alternative methods, such as exercise, mindfulness, and therapy, have been shown to be effective in reducing stress and anxiety levels without the adverse health consequences associated with alcohol and smoking. Some individuals argue that alcohol and smoking provide a sense of relief and release stress quickly, making them preferable for instant relaxation. While this may seem practical in the short term, relying on alcohol and smoking as a means of stress reduction is a dangerous cycle that ignores the long-term consequences for health and cognitive function. 

        

            We should encourage healthier alternatives and promote overall well-being. In conclusion, given the overwhelming evidence highlighting the negative health implications and impaired cognitive function caused by alcohol and smoking, a ban on these substances is necessary to protect public health. Alcohol consumption and smoking pose serious health risks, particularly in terms of liver damage, chronic diseases, and impaired cognitive function. Although there are some arguments that consuming alcohol and cigarettes is a sedative and stress reliever, researchers have said that to solve their problems, they think that consuming alcohol will ease their minds a little (Rori, 2015). Despite claims about their use as tranquilizing agents, there are safer alternatives to release stress such as exercise and other beneficial activities. By implementing bans on alcohol and smoking, we are prioritizing the long-term health and cognitive function of individuals, as well as offering safer alternatives for relaxation and stress management. It is time we prioritize public health over the temporary relief provided by these harmful substances. 

Reference : 

Mamonto Silviani , Sekplin S Sekeon, Angela F.C. Kalexaran. (2019). 

HUBUNGAN ANTARA STATUS MEROKOK DENGAN GANGGUAN FUNGSI KOGNITIF MASYARAKAT DESA TAMBUN KECAMATAN LIKUPANG BARAT. 

Jurnal KESMAS, Vol. 8, No. 7 Rawis Gisela Irma Rawis, Budi T. Ratag. Angela F. C. Kalesaran. (2019). 

HUBUNGAN AKTIVITAS FISIK DAN KEBIASAAN MEROKOK DENGAN GANGGUAN FUNGSI KOGNITIF PADA LANSIA DI DESA TONDEGESAN KECAMATAN KAWANGKOAN KABUPATEN MINAHASA. 

Jurnal KESMAS Vol. & No. 7. (187) Rori. (2015). 

Pengaruh penggunaan minuman keras pada kehidupan remaja di Desa Kali Kecamatan Pineleng Kabupaten Minahasa Utara. Jurnal Holistik No 16.