Smoking

8 Pages 2035 Words

hile the number of cigarette smokers in the United States has continually decreased over recent years, the number of smokeless tobacco users has steadily increased.

Since the 1970s, a 15-fold increase in smokeless tobacco has been noted in adolescents aged 17 to 19. This has most likely been related to the emphasis on smoke-free environments; availability of tobacco products; increased advertising of smokeless products; macho, athletic role models who use and advertise for smokeless products; and the false belief that smokeless tobacco is a safe alternative for those convinced they should stop smoking but who still want (are addicted to) the nicotine effects of tobacco.

TOBACCO USE
Although over 38 million people in the United States have quit smoking, about 50 million continue to smoke (about 25.7% of the adult population). Each year, approximately 1.3 million Americans quit smoking. In addition, about two-thirds of current smokers state that they would like to quit and only 19% of the current U.S. smokers report they have never tried to quit. About 30% to 40% of those who have not tried to quit say they do not believe that the health risks of smoking are real, or they do not believe that quitting smoking will ultimately decrease their risks for disease.

It is estimated that about 5.5 million people use smokeless tobacco daily and another 6 million use it at least weekly. Young men are at highest risk for using tobacco products but the incidence in women is increasing. Smokeless tobacco use is highest in the Southeast region, followed by the Central Plains and Western states. Its use is lowest in the Northeast region of the United States. Smokeless tobacco use patterns are higher within the following occupations: athletes, ranchers, farmers, fishermen, lumberjacks, and industrial workers who have repetitive jobs requiring hand freedom.

EFFECTS
Nicotine has both stimulant and depressant effects upon the body. Bowel to...