smoking is definitely one of the silliest habits most people find difficult to give up once they've started. An approximated 2 million people die every year from smoking and smoke related diseases. The most unfortunate thing is that several smokers know the health hazards but find it difficult dropping the habit once started. A lot of risks are associated with smoking but i'll outline a few and also tips on dropping the stick.
1. Lung Cancer
Generally, the most dreadful disease with regards to smoking is lung cancer and claims at least 1 million lives every year. Cancer of the lungs results from genetic modification of the cells of the lungs. This is usually caused by some carcinogenic (cancer causing) agents present in tobacco smoke, the most important one being Nicotine and the lesser being the smoke. These agents alter the genetic makeup of the lung cells and eventually cause the cells to multiply rapidly at a rate exponentially higher than the normal healthy cell growth rate. Eventually, the lungs grow into a huge mass and ultimately results in death.
2. Tuberculosis
This is another health hazard and one which claims a lot of lives too. Tuberculosis is caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculum. And although, this bacteria has nothing to do directly with smoking, studies have shown that smokers stand the highest risk of acquiring the disease. The smoke makes the tissues of the lungs weak and very susceptible to external infection. Due to certain factors, especially the softness of and weakness of the lungs, it becomes readily susceptible to diseases. Thus due to the presence of the bacteria in readily available quantities, it makes smokers readily exposed to the disease
3. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning.
Carbon Monoxide (CO), the gas produced from incomplete combustion of hydrocarbons and other organic substances is one of the constituents of every cigarette stick. CO is a deadly poison and probably should be the greatest risk posed. The haemoglobin in the blood actually carries the oxygen in the body system. CO due to it's relative instability and high affinity for oxygen competes with haemoglobin for oxygen. This deprives the heart from oxygen and can cause instant death.
I've been able to list out a few hazards. Now to withdrawal tips
It's true that to stop smoking isn't easy once started but a few tips here may help.
* Find a replacement. Chewing carrots or chewing gum a lot can help you divert your attention from the death stick.
* There's a tendency for increased appetite when withdrawing so, eat good food regularly.
* If you've been smoking heavily before, switch to a mentholated cigarette and try not to smoke more than three sticks a day. If you're a beginner however, try as much as possible not to exceed one stick everyday
* Withdrawal is a gradual process, so don't get discouraged if you don't start seeing changes on time
