Description
This article is from the Smokers FAQ,
by jdawson@netcom.com (Joe Dawson) with numerous contributions by
others.
02 Health Effects Of Smoking
The two most notable ailments that have been linked with smoking
are lung cancer and heart disease. Statistically, smokers are at
increased risk for both of these, though not as much so as some of
the propaganda out there would suggest.
It is true that most smokers die of cancer or heart disease... but on
the other hand, so do most nonsmokers. Certain types of cancer or
heart disease are statistically more common in smokers or tend to
appear at earlier ages, but again, not as much as some Antismoking
propaganda would suggest.
For example, while it is true that 85% or so of lung cancer patients are
smokers or ex-smokers, the definitions used in deriving that figure would
include well over 60% of the older population. Lifelong smokers face a 5
or 10% risk of lung cancer, higher than nonsmokers, but not the destined
fate of smokers as is sometimes claimed.. Those in their 20s, 30s, and even
40s who fret that every little cough is a sign of lung cancer can rest easy.
The disease is relatively unknown, even among heavier smokers, until later
in life.
It is statistically true that smokers, on the average, lose some years at
the tail end of their lives (though politicians conveniently ignore this
when they argue for increased "health and medical cost" taxes on smokers.)
However, at least some of these deaths are due not to smoking itself, but
to the lifestyle choices that smokers make. Smokers tend to eat fattier
foods, drink more alcohol, use more illegal drugs , and exercise less. When
such factors are taken into account the difference in life expectancy
between a smoker and a nonsmoker decreases significantly. Genetics, diet,
and socio-economic status all can surpass moderate smoking in their
effects on our longevity.
Are we de-emphasizing the health risks here? Not so much as they are
generally over-emphasized elsewhere. Recent studies indicate that
most people vastly overestimate the health risks of smoking. If one
derives enough enjoyment from smoking it is not at all irrational to
balance that enjoyment against the risks and continue smoking. On the
other hand, those who smoke purely from habit might do well to
give it up and enjoy the health benefits of not smoking.
Continue to:
Share and Enjoy
Bookmark this story so others can enjoy it:
Tags
health, stop, smoking, addiction, nicotine, tobacco, death, anti-smoking
