Nicotine is an extremely potent agent that, along with tobacco, delivers a highly addictive combination of chemicals into the lungs of a cigarette smoker. The statistics are staggering in support of the need for those addicted to quit smoking as early as they possibly can in order to negate the side effects of smoking as quickly as possible.
According to a 2014 CDC report, 5.6 million Americans currently under the age of 18 will end up dying from a smoking-related disease if trends continue.* Despite widespread knowledge of the dangers and side effects of using tobacco products, smoking remains the largest cause of preventable disease in the U.S.** That said, smoking is one of the most difficult habits to kick so smokers often need support in order to quit smoking for good.
There are excellent smoking cessation programs that help you do exactly that and once a person has quit, the good news is that a number of the side effects are reversible. These programs may include medications to help curb nicotine dependence (over-the-counter nicotine patches, nicotine gum, lozenges or prescription drugs like Chantix®) as well as behavioral therapies and even hypnosis.
Quitting smoking lowers the risks of a number of health issues including cancer, heart disease, stroke, emphysema, COPD and more. Arm yourself with the resources and support you need (or provide that support for a loved one) to quit smoking once and for all.
** Centers for Disease Control, www.cdc.gov
The above summary by WebPsychology.