With all the knowledge we have theses days, it can be very surprising to see people continue to indulge in habits that are detrimental to their health. In actual fact what this tells us is that addiction is powerful. Our objective is to learn about smoking. How it affects you. The power of addiction and health implications involved in this habit. Currently it is estimated that over one billion people smoke around the world. Most smokers begin at an early age, generally in there teens. In the past smoking was a recreational function of the rich, but these days that is quite the contrary. Unfortunately the less educated seem to be smoking rather than the educated. The level of education, income and standard of living contribute greatly to the success of quitting smoking. Here are some interesting statistics from the world health organization. 25.6 million people smoke in the United States.
Among whites 25.1% of men smoke and 21.7% of women smoke.
Among African Americans, 27.6% of men smoke and 18% of women smoke.
Among Hispanics 23.2% men smoke and 12.5% of women smoke.
Among Asians 21.3% men smoke and 6.9% of women.
One out of every five deaths is tobacco related. It is estimated that 400000 Americans die each year from tobacco. Smoking is highest among persons living below the poverty level. Education is extremely important in the fight against smoking. Education is not just telling people about smoking. What is needed is dialogue and interaction so that each individual can understand factually the implications. I talked to a person one time who was very upset that the price of cigarettes is getting increasingly expensive. She felt she was been discriminated against. To her she is addicted and the majority are against her. She felt the fight against tobacco was an attack on her. Firstly it is poor education that makes her feel this way. Secondly when smoking socially you also jeopardize the health of others. Thirdly the costs to the health system are enormous. Fourthly we as people take things personally. Addiction can bring pleasure temporarily but fatal consequences later. Her challenge was that she wanted to continue smoking and the majorities were making it difficult for her. So when you really get down to it she was concerned about her own pleasures above her health and the health of others. The choices to continue smoking is yours, but understand that the costs are high for your health and the health of others. No one can deny the dangers of smoking. Quit today. |
