Smoking is a habit that I know many of my friends and family struggle to break up for years. They understand the health risks involved, but that hasn’t helped them. Perhaps like someone that drinks regularly. They know it’s bad for them, but struggle to stop. I never picked up smoking, but my European friends did. For them, smoking is part of their culture and life. Everyone from their father and sister to grandma smoked, so why wouldn’t they? “Smoking is bad for me,” they say, “but I can’t seem to quit.” It’s the common dialogue used by millions around the world, many who are deceased now. Those that never picked up the habit want to understand why they do it and how they can help them eliminate this awful and destructive habit for good. This article will dive into why people smoke and why it can be so hard to quit, as well as the consequences of smoking and the resources available to help them quit.

Smoking: A Prologue

Smoking is inhaling smoke from combustible substances, typically cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or other tobacco products. It is one of the leading causes of death and disease in the United States. Cigarette smoking is linked to an estimated 443,000 premature deaths yearly, including an estimated 49,400 deaths due to secondhand smoke exposure. Smoking is a risk factor for several types of cancer, as well as heart disease, stroke, and lung disease.

An Evil Plot

The book Merchants of Doubt by Naomi Oreskes and Erik M. Conway shows how the tobacco industry used tactics such as misinformation and deception to downplay the health risks associated with smoking. This book puts into perspective the lengths that the tobacco industry went to keep people smoking, and it makes it easier to understand why people are still smoking despite knowing the risks. Although the same tactics of the tobacco industry are no longer in use, the effects of their campaigns are still felt today in the form of people continuing to smoke.

Health Risks

The health risks associated with smoking are numerous and serious. Smoking is a major risk factor for several types of cancer, as well as heart disease, stroke, and lung disease. It is also linked to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, and cataracts. Smoking during pregnancy can lead to preterm delivery and low birth weight, as well as several health risks for the baby. In addition, smoking can cause bad breath, yellow teeth, and an increased risk of gum disease.

I. Why People Smoke

Nicotine Addiction

Nicotine is the chemical in cigarettes that makes them so addictive. When inhaled, it is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and triggers the release of dopamine, which is a feel-good chemical in the brain. This dopamine release is what makes smoking pleasurable, and it is also why smoking is so hard to quit. Nicotine is highly addictive, and many people become physically and mentally dependent on it. This makes quitting smoking very difficult, even if the person is aware of the health risks.

Stress Relief

Smoking is often used as a way to cope with stress and anxiety. Nicotine has a calming effect on the brain, which can provide temporary relief from stress or anxiety. Many smokers also find that smoking helps them focus or relax. Unfortunately, smoking is not a healthy way to cope with stress, and it comes with serious health risks.

Social Pressure

Social pressure can be a major factor in why people smoke. For some people, smoking is seen as a way to fit in with friends or peers. Young people may be more likely to start smoking if their friends are already doing it, and adults may continue to smoke because of the pressure to conform. Although this social pressure can be hard to resist, it is important to remember that the health risks of smoking far outweigh the benefits.

Learned Behavior

Smoking can also be a learned behaviour. If you grew up in a household where smoking was accepted or even encouraged, you may be more likely to take up the habit later in life. Even if you were not allowed to smoke in your home growing up, you may still be exposed to it as an adult and be tempted to try it. It is important to be aware of this learned behaviour so that you can avoid picking up the habit.

II. Consequences of Smoking

Health Risks

The health risks associated with smoking are numerous and serious. Smoking is a major risk factor for several types of cancer, as well as heart disease, stroke, and lung disease. It is also linked to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, and cataracts. Smoking during pregnancy can lead to preterm delivery and low birth weight, as well as several health risks for the baby. In addition, smoking can cause bad breath, yellow teeth, and an increased risk of gum disease.

Financial Costs

The financial costs of smoking can vary depending on where you live. In Canada, the average cost of a pack of cigarettes is around $13. For the average smoker, a year of smoking can tally up to around $1,824 and $73,000 over a lifetime. In Europe, the cost can be much higher, with some countries charging up to $15 per pack. The average smoker can spend $2,012 in a year, and over $80,500 with a lifetime commitment. This is of course in addition to the cost of the cigarettes themselves, there are also the medical costs associated with smoking. These can include doctor’s visits, medications, and hospital bills.

Social Stigma

Smoking is also associated with a social stigma. Many people view smoking as a dirty habit, and those who smoke may be judged or looked down upon. This can make it difficult for smokers to socialize or even find a job. The social stigma of smoking can be a major deterrent for those who are trying to quit.

III. Quitting Smoking

Resources Available

There are many resources available to help those who are trying to quit smoking. In Canada, the QuitNow program provides free advice and support to help smokers quit. There are also many over-the-counter products such as patches, gum, and lozenges that can help reduce cravings. In addition, there are prescription medications that can help curb nicotine cravings.

Benefits of Quitting

Quitting smoking can have many benefits. The most obvious benefit is improved health. Quitting smoking can reduce the risk of developing cancer and other serious illnesses. But there are also other benefits, such as improved energy levels, improved sense of smell and taste, and financial savings. Quitting smoking can also lead to improved relationships and better self-esteem.

Conclusion

Smoking is a dangerous habit that can have serious health consequences. It can be difficult to quit due to nicotine addiction, stress relief, social pressure, learned behaviour, lack of education about health risks, and peer influence. However, there are resources available to help those who are trying to quit, and the benefits of quitting smoking are numerous. It is important to remember that quitting smoking is possible and that the health risks of smoking far outweigh any perceived benefits.

Quitting smoking can be a difficult process and journey. It may take multiple attempts before you are successful. However, it is important to remember that it is possible to quit and that the benefits of quitting far outweigh the risks. With the help of resources such as QuitNow, you can take the first step towards quitting smoking and reclaiming your health and well-being.

Sources

1. ChatGPT