Smoking Cons

The cons of smoking definitely outweigh the pros. Most people are aware that smoking can lead to lung cancer and other health risks, yet each day someone will start or restart lighting up. Smoking pros include momentary gratification and the sense of bonding experienced with other smokers. But the cons affect not only you, but also those who love you.

The Facts

Cigarettes contain the addictive drug nicotine, which is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream when inhaled. The initial result is stimulation of the central nervous system, which includes an increase in blood pressure, heart rate and respiration. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, nicotine can also lead to chronically elevated blood sugar levels. It can also lead to addiction, which refers to compulsive use of a drug, even when there are negative consequences. When an addicted smoker tries to quit, she experiences unpleasant withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, sleep disturbances and powerful cravings for tobacco.

Significance

Smoking is the leading preventable cause of disability, disease and death in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, smoking causes about 438,000 deaths each year, with approximately 38,000 deaths a year attributed to second-hand smoke. Smoking harms nearly every organ in the body and causes 87 percent of lung cancer deaths, which is the leading cause of U.S. cancer deaths for both men and women.

Short-term Consequences

Short-term consequences that are not health-related include an unpleasant smell on clothing, the cost of cigarettes, uncomfortable feelings around non-smokers, and holes burnt in upholstery or clothes. Short-term health-related consequences include a nagging cough, feeling winded after light activity, trembling hands and lingering colds.

Serious Health Consequences

Cigarette smoking accounts for about one-third of all cancers. It is responsible for not only lung cancer, but also for most cancers of the larynx, esophagus and bladder. According to the American Cancer Society, tobacco contains more than 60 substances known to cause cancer. There is also evidence that cigarette smoking is a major cause of coronary heart disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary (lung) disease.

Benefits of Quitting

Quitting smoking can lead to immediate health benefits for men and women of all ages. Quitting decreases the risks of lung cancer and other forms of cancer. It also decreases the risk of heart disease, stroke and chronic lung disease. The earlier you quit, the greater the health benefits. The CDC offers a comprehensive list of links for help quitting smoking (see Resources).

References

• National Institute on Drug Abuse
• National Cancer Institute

Resources

• Center for Disease Control and Prevention - Quit Smoking Resources