Smoking tobacco has long been a part of American culture, but it's also one of the leading causes of preventable death and disease. Unfortunately, Tennesseans are no exception to this. In fact, the statistics are alarming. According to the Tennessee Department of Health, over 10,000 Tennesseans die each year as a result of smoking-related illnesses, making it one of the leading causes of death in the state.
The dangers of smoking are well-known. Cigarettes contain over 7,000 chemicals, many of which are toxic and known to cause cancer. Inhaling these chemicals puts you at an increased risk of developing a range of serious diseases, including lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease, stroke, and many others.
But smoking not only affects the smoker's health, but also those around them. Secondhand smoke can be just as harmful, causing an estimated 41,000 deaths from heart disease and lung cancer each year in the United States. Children exposed to secondhand smoke are more likely to develop asthma, ear infections, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
The good news is that it's never too late to quit smoking, and there are many resources available to help you do so. The Tennessee Tobacco QuitLine provides free, confidential coaching and nicotine replacement therapy to Tennesseans who want to quit smoking. The program is staffed by trained professionals who can help you develop a plan to quit and stay quit. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers a number of resources to help you quit smoking, including mobile apps, online tools, and support groups.
Quitting smoking is not easy, but it's worth it. You'll immediately begin to experience health benefits, such as improved lung function, reduced risk of heart disease and stroke, and improved overall quality of life. And over time, your risk of developing smoking-related diseases will continue to decrease.
In conclusion, smoking tobacco is a deadly habit that has a significant impact on the health and wellbeing of Tennesseans. Quitting smoking is one of the most important things you can do to improve your health and the health of those around you. With the help of resources like the Tennessee Tobacco QuitLine and the CDC, you can successfully quit smoking and live a healthier, smoke-free life.