Bad Effects Of Smoking

The rosy picture of cigarette commercials is a far cry from the grim reality that smoking brings. Rather than help you cope with the complexities of modern living, smoking brings many people closer to the grave.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said adult male smokers lose an average of 13.2 years of life while female smokers lose 14.5 years of life.

How much damage smoking does to your body depends on the type of tobacco, the form it is smoked, the temperature it is burned, the length of time you have been smoking and your general state of health. Experts say cigarette smoking is the most dangerous form and every cigarette you smoke shortens your life.

Cigarette smokers are twice as likely to die before middle age and the average smoker aged 35 has a life expectancy five and a half years shorter than a non-smoker. In many cases, these deaths are caused by cancer.

“Cigarette smoking accounts for at least 30 percent of all cancer deaths. It is a major cause of cancers of the lung, larynx (voice box), oral cavity, pharynx (throat), esophagus (swallowing tube connected to the stomach), and bladder, and it contributes to the development of cancers of the pancreas, cervix, kidney, stomach, and also some leukemias,” according to the American Cancer Society (ACS).

“Smoking is responsible for about 87 percent of lung cancer deaths. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women, and is one of the most difficult cancers to treat. Lung cancer is a disease that can in many cases be prevented. Groups that promote non-smoking as part of their religion, such as Mormons and Seventh-day Adventists, have much lower rates of lung cancer and other smoking-related cancers,” it added.

Aside from lung cancer, smoking damages the cardiovascular, respiratory and digestive systems of the body. The irritating substances found in a cigarette can disturb the bronchial passages and fill the lungs with mucus.

Normally, glands in the interior lining of the lungs constantly produce mucus. Together with dirt and bacteria, the mucus is expelled from the lungs by the action of cilia or small hair-like projections.

Inhaled smoke, however, interferes with the action of cilia and stimulates mucus production. Because of this, mucus, tar and other bacteria are trapped in the lungs. Smoker's cough is a sign that the lungs are clogged with mucus and coughing is the body’s attempt to get rid of tar and phlegm.

Bacteria in the lungs can later lead to bronchitis (the Inflammation of the bronchial tubes) or emphysema in which the air passages of the lungs are enlarged. This makes breathing difficult and can damage the heart. Atherosclerosis (the hardening of the arteries) and thrombosis (the formation of blood clots) are common in smokers because the level of fatty acids and cholesterol in the blood is raised.

In the fourth part of this series, we’ll tackle the other harmful effects of smoking. Don’t miss it! To strengthen your body, take Immunitril – your first line of defense in maintaining a healthy immune system. For details, visit http://www.bodestore.com/immunitril.html.

Author's Bio: 

Sharon Bell is an avid health and fitness enthusiast and published author. Many of her insightful articles can be found at the premier online news magazine www.HealthLinesNews.com.

Article source: http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/Bad_Effects_Of_Smoking.html

READ MORE →

The Primary Cause of Cancer in Smokers Isn't What You Think!

When you think of a smoker with lung cancer, what likely comes to mind, is that tobacco is responsible for the damage. This is a plausible answer, but research is beginning to paint a different picture. In school and in the media, it's taught that the carcinogens in cigarettes causes build up in the lungs that eventually turns into cancer. The truth is no one really knows what it is about cigarettes that leads to cancer, but the smart answer would be the many chemicals found inside. Integrative medicine doctors in Phoenix recommend never putting chemicals in your body if you want to prevent cancer.

There have been countless studies that have researched the effects of cigarettes and the link to cancer. What was found was that there's something else inside of cigarettes that acts as the prime culprit of lung cancer. In the integrative medicine community in Arizona, it is believed that that main culprit can potentially wreak havoc on our food supply. It could also point to their being carcinogens inside of foods that have been genetically engineered, including tobacco. However, there's no actual evidence of this yet.

So What's the Primary Culprit for Lung Cancer?

Polonium-210 was found inside of cigarettes. This is a highly radioactive element. As it decays, it releases alpha particles. Although these can't penetrate deep into your system, they can cause all sorts of damage to the cells that it does interact with. Essentially, Polonium-210 is chemically toxic. Those who have high concentrations of toxins in their body can visit an integrative medicine doctor in Phoenix, Arizona to obtain services like chelation and ozone therapy. These are sometimes used in conjunction with alternative cancer treatments in Arizona.

In nature, you can find this toxic in small quantities, so why the exposure in agriculture? It's done through calcium phosphate fertilizers that are commonly used on tobacco fields and other food crops.

The Dangers of Radioactive Fertilizer

This sounds like a horrible script for a sci-fi movie, but the concern is in real life and it's a real threat, especially for smokers. Studies reveal that this is the top culprit for lung cancer in tobacco users. It's the only substance inside of cigarettes that have shown to portray cancerous side effects in lab animals.

If you are a smoker, it's a good idea to consult with an integrative medicine physician in Phoenix to see how you can quit smoking and prevent the onset of lung cancer.

Aticle source: http://www.articlesbase.com/cancer-articles/the-primary-cause-of-cancer-in-smokers-isnt-what-you-think-7473063.html

READ MORE →

Types Of Diseases Caused By Smoking

Smoking is a serious health hazard. People are usually misled by the fact that cigarettes are sold legally and they are not fully aware how dangerous, addictive and fatal they can be. Smoking causes various truly harmful diseases; from various types of cancer, to heart and cardiovascular diseases and infections.

Here is a list of most common diseases smoking causes

1. Cancer

Smokers unfortunately have an extremely high risk of getting some type of cancer. The reason why this happens is simple: carcinogen is present in tobacco and that is a substance which causes various kinds of cancer: lung cancer, mouth and tongue cancer, and throat and gullet cancer. These diseases are almost always terminal and practically impossible to cure. More than 85% of patients with diagnosed lung cancer for instance, are smoking regularly. Unfortunately, second hand smokers are not protected as well, so they often end up getting sick and that is a real tragedy. There are other types of cancer also related to smoking: pancreatic and bladder cancer, and cervical cancer (female smokers).

2. Cardiovascular diseases

Cardiovascular diseases include heart malfunctions, problems with blood vessels, clogged arteries etc. They are a huge health problem and the major cause of death among smokers. There is a very simple medical explanation: nicotine (from cigarettes) increases the level of cholesterol in our blood. Arteries and veins get harder, they clog and become rigid. Once that happens you are at great risk of having a heart attack or stroke, because of the formation of clots. Smokers often have: thrombosis (coronary or cerebral), leg blockage, stroke or other cerebral diseases.

3. COPD a.k.a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases

COPD is a large group of diseases which cause various breathing difficulties. Bronchitis (regular or chronic), emphysema and shortness of breath are in this category. Once you start smoking and inhaling smoke, you cause damage to your air sacks (or alveoli) and that is the main reason why smokers often suffer from these diseases.

There are other, numerous health conditions and diseases, caused by smoking. All those chemicals present in tobacco are the main reason why smokers often get sick and suffer from all these diseases. Smoking is hazardous for your oral health: teeth suffer and gums often experience problems and soreness. Mouth ulcers are also very common as well as other infections. Skin aging should also be taken seriously, because that is a direct consequence of smoking. Impotence is also connected to smoking, so quit on time before you experience even more difficulties.

Think about your health and future and think about how much money you waste on something that is actually killing you. Protect your friends and family and prevent them from inhaling hazardous second hand smoke. If you are determined to quit – you will be able to do it. Think of all the people who already struggled to quit and succeeded. Lean on your family and friends and ask for their support. Save your health and choose life.

Article source: http://www.articlesbase.com/quit-smoking-articles/types-of-diseases-caused-by-smoking-1914623.html

READ MORE →

How To Quit Smoking The Easy Way

Quitting smoking easy? That's impossible!

Well it used to be impossible but not anymore, with the help of electronic cigarettes quitting is easier then ever. The key is in emulating the real smoking experience, something the gum and the patch have been unable to do. Sure they offer a nicotine fix but it's the act of putting the cigarette in your mouth and inhaling and exhaling that most people have the hardest time coming to terms with losing.

For many smokers this is huge stress relief point, As an ex-smoker I know how hard it is to give this up. When you're at work and the boss and or the customers are getting on your nerves or when you have a little strife in the home or just after a good meal it's so tempting to step outside and smoke that cigarette.

The awesome thing about electronic cigarettes is that you can get your nicotine fix without giving up the ability to inhale and exhale the smoke, only in this case it's water vapor you're inhaling but it still has the same sensation and gives you a nicotine fix.

Why Are Electronic Cigarettes Better Than Tobacco Cigarettes?

They're better because they don't contain and of the harmful carcinogens found in cigarette smoke. You are probably aware that cigarettes are bad for you, but do you know exactly how bad they really are?

Cigarette smoke contains more than 7000 chemical compounds around 600 or so of which are known to cause cancer. Another interesting fact you may not know is that smoking is the number one cause of no less than 11 different types of cancer.

They also cause heart disease, high blood pressure and shortness of breath. The inability to breath naturally leads to a reduction in a smokers activities which can lead to poor health.

Are Electronic Cigarettes Right For Me?

If you're a smoker looking to quit or switch to a healthier way of getting your nicotine fix then I would say yes they are right for you.

If you're a non-smoker thinking this is a great way to look cool and hang with the smoker crowd than NO they are not for you. If you don't already smoke please don't take up electronic cigarettes thinking their perfectly healthy and guilt free.

The fact is nicotine in and of it's self is harmful and should not be treated as caffeine or other mild stimulants. Nicotine is what's known as a vasoconstrictor and if you're not already addicted to it just save yourself the trouble and don't start using it.

How Do I know Which Brand Is Right For Me?

There are several factors that go into selecting a brand but the best place to start is by reading electronic cigarette reviews from different sources including YouTube and websites.

Make sure the reviews you watch or read cover these four very important areas.

Taste

Throat hit

Vapor Output

Battery Quality

These have proven to be the four most important factors time and again to getting a brand that you will like and be happy with.

This is important because if you don't like the brand you choose you're likely to go back to smoking tobacco cigarettes with all of it's harmful chemicals and cancer causing agents.

It should be noted that electronic cigarettes are not an FDA approved quit smoking device but it's my personal opinion that this should not stop you from using them to quit smoking. The FDA has not approved them due to a lack of testing but I have known many people that have successfully used them to stop smoking.

They were designed with quitting in mind which is why the come in step downs of nicotine levels from strong right down to 0 nicotine.

Please leave me a comment below!

Article Source: http://www.streetarticles.com/quit-smoking/how-to-quit-smoking-the-easy-way

READ MORE →

Big Tobacco And Quit Smoking Ad Campaigns In The News

Big Tobacco is a term often applied to the tobacco industry in general. Philip Morris USA and RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company are the 2 leading cigarette manufacturers in the US.

US FDA reported March 30 that U.S. health regulators said that tobacco companies must report how much formaldehyde, nicotine or any of 18 other harmful chemicals are in their products.

About 3 million American high school students and more than 45 million adults smoke cigarettes. Some 8 million Americans have smoking-related illnesses and as many as 443,000 Americans die each year from smoking-related causes such as lung cancer. Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the US.

The member states of the World Health Organization created World No Tobacco Day in 1987 and is observed around the world every year on May 31.

Established in 1983, No Smoking Day works to support smokers who want to quit, and takes place the 2nd Wednesday of every March. Unfortunately this years No Smoking Day, March 14th, came around without much publicity.

But, the Center for Disease Control launched a $54 million, 12 week Quit Smoking ad campaign on March 19th that has caused a lot of media attention. The commercials being shown are very graphic, with a stroke patient named Suzy, being bathed in her hospital bed. A man that has had a tracheotomy due to smoking, with a hole in his throat, while he is shaving. Terrie, who is a bald, toothless 51-year-old woman and has a raspy voice from smoking also has a hole in her throat. The commercials have had a big impact on smokers. Calls to a quit smoking hotline doubled the first week of the campaign.

In BET News, a commentary, Not So Kool, said that although black Americans smoke less than Caucasians, they are more likely to die of lung cancer. Eight million black Americans now smoke tobacco due to direct targeting by Big Tobacco.

A campaign called "No Thanks Big Tobacco",has found sample resolutions and policies that organizations, events, venues and businesses can adopt to not accept any funding or charitable donations from the tobacco industry.

The Atria Group, the parent company of Philip Morris USA and U.S. Smokeless Tobacco, told ABC News that the company agrees smoking is addictive and causes serious disease and, for those who want to avoid the health effects of smoking, the best thing to do is to quit.

If you need help to quit smoking, go to SmokeFree .gov. They have a step by step quit guide, you can talk to an expert and find the tools you will need to quit.

Article Source: http://www.streetarticles.com/quit-smoking/big-tobacco-and-quit-smoking-ad-campaigns-in-the-news

READ MORE →

Smoking Has Many Health Hazards

Smoking has many health hazards and most of us know that. It’s been said for years that getting lung cancer from smoking was usually your biggest threat .It has even been linked to bladder cancer too. Researchers from the University Of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center conducted a study that the majority of the population is not yet aware that this is true.

The correlation between smoking behavior and bladder cancer risk, they found, was strong. For example, one study found that a person’s risk of developing bladder cancer goes down by 40 percent with the first four years of quitting smoking.

The general population has just not been aware of the link between smoking and bladder cancer. Only 22 percent of bladder cancer patients surveyed knew that smoking increases the risk the risk of developing the disease.

Bladder cancer is one of the most expensive forms of cancer to treat. In the United States, it is the fourth most common cancer in men and the ninth most common in women. More than 47,000 cases new cases have been diagnosed in men and 16,000 in women each year.

Now I know you hear cases all the time about ways to quit smoking. There must be hundreds of programs to help people quit smoking. Some work very well and some don’t. I still believe the best way to quit smoking is by going “cold turkey.” Many people try that and it works for some for awhile but it isn’t too long before they are back at it again.

The key to stop smoking is nothing more then a “positive mindset”. You must make a strong commitment to quit before you will ever be successful making it happen. I can speak with authority about that because I stopped smoking “cold turkey” about 35 years ago. I’ll never forget that day.

At the time, I was a salesman and had made the decision to quit smoking one morning before making my calls on my customers. The first person I visited, I ask the question, “Do you smoke”. He said, “Yes I do”. I said, “Well here’s a half pack of cigarettes you can have.”

He was dumfounded and couldn’t believe I had decided to quit smoking “cold turkey” He said he had tried many times to stop smoking himself many times but never could. I said, “Well once you are fully committed to stop you will do it but not until that time you fully make up your mind”

I have never ever had a craving to smoke a cigarette since that time. I tried several times to quit but never could until I made that strong commitment. I never took any drugs to quit either. (I’m not even sure if there were non-smoking drugs then.)

Now there are many non-smoking drugs available. One in particular that had been warned is the popular anti-smoking drug, Chantix which had been linked to elevated risk of suicide. This warning came months after the FDA first expressed concern over the psychiatric effects of the drug. Chantix helps people quit smoking by stimulating the effects of nicotine in the brain.

At the same time it is making real nicotine less effective. As early as November 2007, the FDA warned that many people were experiencing changes in emotions and behavior, including depression and suicidal thoughts, within weeks or even days of starting the drug.

By February, the agency had strengthened its message saying, “It appears increasingly likely that there may be an association between Chantix and serious neuropsychiatric Symptoms” At least 40 cases of suicide and another 400 attempted suicides have been reported among those taking Chantix. In February, the FDA asked Chantix manufacturer Pfizer to make warnings about suicidal and other psychiatric side effects more prominent of the drug’s label.

As I mentioned earlier in this article, the best way to quit smoking is by doing it “cold turkey”. You will not experience any withdrawal problems if you have seriously decided you want to quit. It’s all in the mind and if you program it right you’ll never have a problem to quit smoking. It’s no different than deciding to live a healthier life and doing whatever is necessary to make that happen. Try it, it works.

Learn not only how to live a healthier life but also learn the consequences of living an unhealthy life. Read my ebooks that are available on my website at: http://www.sonnyjulius.com.

Source: http://www.amazines.com/article_detail.cfm/6067261?articleid=6067261

READ MORE →