PROMOTING HEALTHIER COMMUNITIES
THE HARSH TRUTH ABOUT TOBACCO& NICOTINE
February 18, 2023 - 5 minute read
Tobacco and nicotine addiction is a serious problem that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite the well-known health risks associated with tobacco and nicotine use, many people still struggle to quit. In this article, we will explore the harsh truth about tobacco and nicotine addiction and why it is so important to quit.
It is commonly known that using tobacco and nicotine has risks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that smoking causes more than 480,000 fatalities annually in the United States alone, making it the largest preventable cause of death worldwide. This includes passing away from tobacco-related ailments like lung cancer, heart disease, respiratory issues, and others.
- One of the most serious health risks associated with tobacco and nicotine use is lung cancer. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, accounting for about 80% of all cases. The risk of lung cancer increases with the number of cigarettes smoked per day, as well as the duration of smoking. In addition to lung cancer, smoking is also a major risk factor for other types of cancer, including bladder, pancreatic, and kidney cancer.
- Smoking also increases the risk of heart disease, which is the leading cause of death in the United States. Nicotine and other chemicals in tobacco smoke can damage the lining of the arteries, leading to the buildup of plaque and atherosclerosis. This can cause the arteries to become narrow or blocked, which can lead to heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.
Nicotine is a highly addictive substance that is found in tobacco products. When nicotine is inhaled, it is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream, and quickly reaches the brain. Once in the brain, nicotine stimulates the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is associated with pleasure and reward.
- Over time, the brain becomes accustomed to the effects of nicotine, and begins to crave it. This leads to physical dependence, as well as psychological dependence. Physical dependence means that the body has become accustomed to the presence of nicotine, and experiences withdrawal symptoms when it is removed. Psychological dependence means that the person has become emotionally attached to smoking, and associates it with certain activities, moods, or situations.
- The combination of physical and psychological dependence can make it difficult to quit smoking. Many people who try to quit experience withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and cravings. These symptoms can be intense, and can last for weeks or even months.
THE BENEFITS OF QUITTING
In this section, we will highlight the many benefits of quitting tobacco and nicotine, including improved lung function, reduced risk of cancer and heart disease, and better overall health and well-being. We will also discuss the positive impact that quitting can have on mental health and personal relationships.
- One of the most immediate benefits of quitting tobacco and nicotine is improved lung function. Within just a few weeks of quitting, the lungs begin to heal and become less congested. This can lead to improved breathing, and a reduction in respiratory problems such as coughing and wheezing.
- Over time, quitting tobacco and nicotine also reduces the risk of many serious health problems. For example, the risk of lung cancer decreases significantly within the first few years after quitting. The risk of other types of cancer, such as bladder, pancreatic, and kidney cancer, also decreases over time.
In conclusion, the harsh truth about tobacco and nicotine addiction is that it is a dangerous and costly habit that can have serious long-term consequences. However, quitting is possible, and the benefits of doing so are numerous. By taking steps to quit, individuals can improve their health and well-being, while also reducing the economic and societal costs of tobacco and nicotine addiction.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Smoking and Tobacco Use. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/index.htm
- National Institute on Drug Abuse. Drug Facts: Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/cigarettes-other-tobacco-products
- American Lung Association. Smoking and Tobacco Use. Retrieved from https://www.lung.org/quit-smoking/i-want-to-quit/the-benefits-of-quitting-smoking
