Smoking continues to be a phenomenon that affects our society. Whether smoking cigarettes during WWI in the 1920s, the “hookah boom” of the 1970s, or the rise of vape pens in the early 2010s, smoking is a seemingly inescapable occurrence that has entrenched itself into our daily lives. While seen and often marketed as “fun,” “trendy,” or even “cool,” smoking can lead to disease and even death through its continued use.

Smoking is harmful, but even the slightest lifestyle change can make
a huge difference. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cigarette smoking remains the leading cause of preventable disease, disability, and death in the United States. Cigarettes not only affect the smoker; they also affect those around the smoker through secondhand smoke.

The Effects of Secondhand Smoke

Secondhand smoke contains more than 7,000 chemicals, of which hundreds are toxic, and about 70 cause cancer. According to the CDC, nearly 41,000 Americans die prematurely through exposure to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke affects people of all ages.

  • In non-smoking adults, it contributes to chronic illnesses such as heart disease, lung cancer, and stroke.
  • Infants exposed to Secondhand smoke after birth have a significantly higher risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
  • Children exposed to Secondhand smoke develop multiple health problems such as ear infections, respiratory symptoms (coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath), and acute lower respiratory infections, such as bronchitis and pneumonia.(CDC).

Smoking in Communities of Color

Another area that smoking directly impacts is communities of color. In fact, Native Americans and Alaskan Natives have the highest smoking
rate of any racial or ethnic group. According to the American Lung Association, American Indian and Alaska Native men and women have
a higher percentage of smoking-related deaths from heart disease and stroke than white men and women.

African Americans are affected tremendously as well. Tobacco companies specifically target African Americans through the use of menthol-flavored cigarettes. According to the American Lung Association, menthol-flavored cigarettes are easier to start smoking and harder to quit. African American communities face an uphill battle when it comes to quitting smoking.

Make Your Resolution to Quit Now

As upsetting as these facts may be, organizations like The Wellness Coalition are helping people in Montgomery, Macon, and Lowndes counties decrease their tobacco use. According to the CDC, 7 out of 10 people who smoke want to quit. Are you one of them? Visit thewellnesscoalition.org/tobacco or call 1-800-QUIT-NOW for free tobacco support and resources.