1. Tobacco Use Is Linked To Serious Health Conditions
Tobacco use is associated with a range of serious health conditions, including cancer, heart disease, stroke, and chronic lung disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), smoking causes more than 480,000 deaths each year in the United States—making it the leading cause of preventable death.
2. Tobacco Use Is On The Decline
Tobacco use in the United States has declined significantly in the last few decades. According to the CDC, the percentage of adults who smoke cigarettes dropped from 20.9% in 2005 to 14.0% in 2018.
3. Tobacco Use Is Expensive
Tobacco use is associated with significant costs. According to the CDC, smoking-related costs amount to more than $300 billion each year in the United States, including nearly $170 billion in direct medical care for adults and more than $156 billion in lost productivity.
4. Secondhand Smoke Is Dangerous
Secondhand smoke—or the smoke that is released from a burning tobacco product and that is inhaled by those nearby—is also dangerous. According to the CDC, secondhand smoke contains more than 7,000 chemicals, including over 70 that can cause cancer.
5. E-Cigarettes Are Not A Safe Alternative
E-cigarettes are becoming increasingly popular, but they are not a safe alternative to smoking. According to the CDC, e-cigarettes contain nicotine, which is highly addictive and can have long-term effects on brain development.