One of the unhealthiest, most dangerous and smelliest habits is cigarette smoking. It hurts the smoker, it hurts others, it is addictive, but it is possible to break the habit. The next time you light up a cigarette or see someone else light one up, remember some of the facts about cigarette smoking.
Smoking Hurts You
Smoking can cause cancer; According to the American Cancer Society, since smoking causes one in five deaths and it is a preventable behavior, it is the number one most preventable cause of death. The American Cancer Society also says that the chemicals in cigarettes cause lung cancer, other cancers and other organ problems. You have more of a chance of having heart disease, stroke and diabetes if you smoke. You can develop chronic lung diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Smoking can affect how long you live and the overall quality of life you have.
Smoking Hurts Others
If you smoke around other people, you are forcing someone to involuntarily breathe the secondhand smoke that comes from your cigarette. Secondhand smoke can cause cancer. It can also cause chronic lung problems for the persons you live with. Smoking is detrimental to the secondhand smoker. It can cause bronchitis and pneumonia in kids. The National Cancer Institute stated that teens who come from a household where both parents smoke are two times more likely to start smoking, while teens who come from a household where one parent smokes are also more likely to start. Smoking is not good for the unborn baby of a pregnant smoking mother. Smoking is an irritant to those who have pre-existing lung conditions, like asthma.
Smoking Stinks
When you smoke, your clothes smell, the room smells, your car smells and your breath smells. This is a nuisance, it can be a turnoff, and a lot of people might not like the smell of a smoker. It is tough for anyone who is not a smoker to be next to a smoker, let alone kiss a smoker.
Smoking Is Addictive
Tobacco contains nicotine, which can be addictive. The American Cancer Society states that regular use of tobacco results in a physical addiction in many persons. Smoking can also be psychologically addictive. Having a physical and psychological dependence on something is not healthy. The American Cancer Society reports, "About 70% of smokers say they want to quit and about 40% try to quit each year, but only 4% to 7% succeed without help."
You Can Quit or Help Someone Quit
Yes, you can. Smoking is addictive, but we all know someone who used to smoke and has quit. It is not impossible. You should not wait until it is too late, or until your doctor tells you that you might have cancer or a serious lung disease. Counseling, tools, self-help materials, nicotine-replacement therapies and medications are available to help you break this habit.
