Types of Smoking

Humans have been smoking for thousands of years. Historical evidence shows that people used to smoke as part of ancient religious rituals as far back as 5000 BC. Many different types of smoking are still popular today, despite the health risks associated with it. Tobacco is the most commonly smoked substance, but some people smoke other substances as well.

Cigarettes

Cigarettes are the most commonly used smoking products in the world today. According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 46.2 million U.S. adults were current smokers as of 2001 in the United States alone. Cigarettes are highly addictive due to the nicotine they contain. They are sold in stores around the world, despite the fact that they cause cancer-related deaths on a massive scale, according to the CDC.

Cigarette Smoker Numbers

The number of cigarette smokers in the United States has decreased over the last 40 years. According to the American Cancer Society, roughly 40 percent of the adult population smoked cigarettes back in the 1950s. In 2006, the number dropped to around 20 percent. Still, approximately 43 million adults currently smoke cigarettes in the United States. The American Cancer Society also claims that one in five high school students is a regular cigarette smoker.

Tobacco Pipes

People also smoke tobacco with pipes instead of cigarettes. This is a more old-fashioned method of smoking, but just as deadly in many cases. Unlike filtered cigarettes, a tobacco pipe allows the smoker to inhale the smoke directly into their mouth and lungs with no filtration. The smoke is much more potent and flavorful, making this a popular choice for tobacco connoisseurs.

Marijuana

Besides tobacco, marijuana is one of the most commonly smoked substances on earth. Marijuana is an illegal plant that produces feelings of euphoria and relaxation when smoked. There are several popular methods for smoking marijuana. It can be rolled into a joint or blunt wrap, much like a cigarette or cigar. People also smoke marijuana with glass pipes. Bongs are also popular due to the water filtration system that makes it easier to inhale large amounts of smoke. Vaporizers are a healthier option in terms of limiting damage to the lungs. Marijuana is heated by a vaporizer machine without a flame until the point of combustion. A smoker inhales the vapor through a tube, achieving the same effect as if he was smoking with a lighter. According to a National Survey on Drug Use and Health Report from 2004, roughly 3.1 million people in the United States smoke marijuana daily. In addition, more than 25 million people reported having smoked marijuana at least once during the year.

Opium and Crack

Opium is another narcotic that can be smoked. Opium is made from poppy seeds. It was traditionally smoked by Arab and Asian cultures as a ritual drug and pain reliever. Recreational use began in 15th century in China and continues on a much smaller scale today.

Crack cocaine is also commonly smoked illegal substance. This freebase form of cocaine is extremely addictive and harmful to the human body. Crack has played a destructive role in cities throughout the United States since the 1980s.

References

• Green Facts
• American Cancer Society
• NSDUH Report