What is Smoking
Smoking has been a prevalent practice for centuries and typically involves the use of cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or other smoking devices. It consists of the combustion of tobacco or other substances, which produces smoke containing thousands of chemicals, including nicotine, tar, carbon monoxide, etc.
Smoking not only affects the individual who smokes but also poses risks to those exposed to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke contains many of the same harmful elements as directly inhaled smoke and can negatively impact the surrounding people. Therefore, many countries implement restrictions on smoking in public places to protect nonsmokers from secondhand smoke.
It's crucial to note that smoking tobacco is widely recognized as a significant hazard, and quitting smoking or seeking support to do so is strongly encouraged.
Effects of Smoking
There are years of research to back up claims that smoking is damaging to health. According to the CDCTrusted Source, smoking causes:
1. Damage to every organ in the body.
2. More than 480,000 deaths a year in the United States.
3. 90% of all lung cancer deaths.
4. About 80% of deaths from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
5. An increased risk of developing health conditions, such as heart disease and stroke.
6. An increased risk of death.