What causes almost half a million Americans to die needlessly each year ?

If you guessed cigarette smoking, you guessed correctly. Each year almost half a million Americans die from smoking-related illnesses. Cigarette smoking causes the deadliest form of cancer, emphysema, killing more people than breast cancer, colon cancer and prostate cancer combined and it can be prevented. It was over four decades ago, that the Surgeon General issued the first government warning about the dangers of cigarette smoking. Yet today, almost 50 million Americans still smoke, even though the research proves, this is a deadly habit.
It is estimated that the average smoker will shorten his life by 15 years. The long-term health hazards of smoking, such as cancer and emphysema are often the result of chemicals in the cigarettes. Some 4000 chemicals, including nicotine, are released by every burning cigarette. The US Environmental Protection Agency also known as the EPA has classified environmental tobacco smoke as a class A carcinogen, along with a those arsenic, benzene and radon gas in large doses. The effects of nicotine are as lethal as poison, affecting the heart, blood vessels and hormones.
Secondhand cigarette smoke is an issue of great concern as well. Each year more than 35000 deaths occur due to secondhand cigarette smoke inhalation. children who were subject to secondhand cigarette smoke are more likely to suffer from pneumonia and bronchitis as well as other lung diseases. They are also more prone to ear infections and more likely to develop asthma.
The major concern for individuals trying to stop smoking, are the symptoms from withdrawal. There are many methods and therapies available for those wanting to quit. At the top of this list are nicotine replacement products that deliver small supplies of nicotine, without all of the carcinogens or toxic gases that are found in cigarette smoke. Low level laser therapy is also becoming more popular, this works on the same principle as acupuncture, without the needles. Herbal remedies, nutrition and exercise and massage, are all effective methods to help someone stop smoking. Nicotine addiction is a real problem, but certainly, treatable.
Of course anyone attempting to quit smoking, should consult a doctor, who will discuss with them, all of their options and help them decide the best course of action for them. All of the methods to aid the smoker to stop, should be combined with counseling or therapy, the support of family and friends, medical advice and monitoring and the strong desire to succeed. Without dedication, this will be a difficult undertaking. Researchers have shown high success rates for those participating in a more comprehensive smoking program. www.StopSmokingAdvisor.com has great information, articles and resources to get you started.
Know that you need to stop smoking for yourself as well as your family and friends around you. Believe in yourself, be proud of yourself,and be kind to yourself and you will find much success, happiness and a longer and healthier life.

www.StopSmokingAdvisor.com