Rising smoking-linked ailments in MV: A ascending trend in incident cases observed

Rising Tobacco Addiction and Health Risks in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

Tobacco consumption and associated health issues have seen a significant spike in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, according to the latest data from the Commercial Health Insurance Company KKH. The number of tobacco-dependent individuals in the northeastern region has increased by 77 percent from 2013 to 2023, with approximately 100,000 people seeking medical treatment for tobacco addiction, withdrawal symptoms, or related psychological issues in 2023 alone.

Every sixth tobacco user in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern suffers from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The rate of COPD among tobacco consumers in 2013 was 13.2 percent, which has risen significantly. COPD leads to permanent lung damage and increases the risk of heart attacks and lung cancer.

"We are likely only scraping the surface here," states KKH addiction expert, Michael Falkenstein. "The actual percentage of COPD among tobacco consumers may well be much higher."

AOK Nordost data also indicates an increase in psychological disorders and behavioral disorders related to tobacco since 2013, affecting 9.4 percent of AOK insured individuals aged 15 and over in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern in 2023. However, the AOK Nordost spokesperson notes that this may not necessarily imply an augmentation in tobacco addiction numbers, but rather an escalation in diagnosis accuracy.

The surge in awareness regarding the health risks associated with smoking appears to be a key driver behind this trend. Large-scale surveys by the Microcensus and the Robert Koch Institute reveal a decline or stagnation in smoking rates across Germany since 2013.

While Mecklenburg-Vorpommern's smoking rate aligns with the national average, the percentage of AOK insured individuals with psychological disorders and behavioral disorders related to tobacco is approximately 30 percent higher than the national average. Germany saw an increase in tobacco consumption for the first time in 2024 after years of decline, and the rising number of young people using e-cigarettes is causing concern and necessitating political action.

Stephan Haring from the Association of Substitute Health Insurance Funds in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern asserts, "Smoking poses one of the greatest health risks, and despite some progress in recent decades, the current KKH data suggests that there is still a compelling need for society-wide efforts to warn people about the dangers of smoking."

On World No Tobacco Day, the State Coordination Office for Addiction Issues in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania has endorsed the World Health Organization's international campaign to raise awareness about the targeted and manipulative strategies employed by the tobacco and nicotine industry. This year, the focus lies particularly on the enticement of young people, a concerning trend that demands decisive action.

In response to the increased tobacco addiction and associated health risks, the Community Policy in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern may consider revising strategies to curb the use of tobacco among residents.
As chronic diseases such as COPD and mental health issues related to tobacco use continue to rise, the Employment Policy could incorporate wellness programs focusing on health and wellness, fitness and exercise, and nutrition to support employees dealing with these conditions.
With the escalating concerns about e-cigarettes and their appeal to young people, the Employment Policy must address electronic cigarettes in their health and safety guidelines to prevent their misuse in the workplace.
The State Coordination Office for Addiction Issues in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, in line with the World Health Organization's international campaign, could develop science-based resources highlighting the medical-conditions associated with tobacco use, including respiratory conditions like COPD, to educate the community about the dangers of smoking.