Sure, you might believe that smoking is cool, especially if you’re young and healthy and you’re willing to break the ice and talk to that beautiful new neighbor you have. But smoking just to have an excuse to talk to another person or to look “cool” is no rational way of thinking. Youthness and health won’t last forever, and unless you have been living in a cave until now, it’s a fact that smoking can actually kill you.
There are more than 1 billion smokers in the world today, and if you’re not among them, well, first of all, congratulations! Second, you may be wondering why so many people choose this apparently innocent habit. Smoking can relieve stress and anxiety, while it also favors social interactions. But could these benefits possibly outweigh the health risks? Of course not, and here’s why:
Respiratory ruin:
When a person smokes, they inhale toxic substances such as carbon monoxide and tar, leading to chronic inflammation and diminished function of the lungs. Thus, they can even deal with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Smokers usually find themselves trapped in a vicious cycle of wheezing, coughing, as well as shortness of breath as a result of their lungs progressively succumbing to the powerful assault of the toxic chemicals that cigarettes release.
Cardiovascular problems:
Cigarettes don’t only impact the respiratory system of the human body, as the cardiovascular system is also targeted. Nicotine is the addictive agent in tobacco, and it’s responsible for constricting blood vessels, elevating blood pressure, as well as increasing the workload of the heart. This scenario sets the stage for atherosclerosis, meaning the hardening and narrowing of arteries, ultimately paving the way for strokes and heart attacks.
There’s a clear connection between smoking and cardiovascular disease. In other words, each puff you take could be a potential step towards a fatal cardiac event.
Cancer:
Perhaps anybody knows by now that smoking can cause cancer, especially cancer of the lungs. The carcinogens that exist in tobacco can also contribute to other forms of cancer, such as cancer of the throat, mouth, esophagus, bladder, pancreas, and more. Each drag from a cigarette contains a toxic cocktail of chemicals that fosters the uncontrolled growth of cells.
Lung cancer remains one of the most common forms of cancer worldwide, and it’s a highly dangerous and life-threatening condition. The disease is associated with a high mortality rate.
The silent killer:
Most people like to deceive themselves, saying that smoking is no big deal since many people do it, which is one of the reasons that this habit can be so cunning. Smoking-related diseases can install gradually, often evading immediate notice. Smokers may not realize the severity of the damage until irreversible health complications kick in.
A lifelong battle:
It’s both sad and somewhat funny that most smokers try to quit this habit sooner or later. That’s also one of the most challenging endeavors a person can go for, as smoking can cause a very strong addiction. But if a person truly manages to break free from the clutches of nicotine addiction, the rewards are huge. He or she will deal with improved lung function, a reduced risk of cancer and heart disease, and more. The body will begin to heal itself once there’s no more toxic exposure.
Look in the mirror and ask yourself sincerely, “is it worth risking my health only to look cool in front of others?”. The answer is most probably “no.” Therefore, smoking can’t possibly be a good idea if you care about your health.
