Quit Smoking Now
Smoking may be a temporary pleasure for now. However, ‘for now’ is a phrase that currently may not have a definite end point. While the pleasure that comes with smoking cigarettes may be real, the effects of smoking are also real; and these are much more serious and last a long time.
The reasons for people smoking may vary, from peer pressure to stress, or even pure psychological reasons. Dealing with these factors through smoking cigarettes may seem like an easy way out, but the long-term repercussions are more serious than you may think.
Research has proven that 87% of lung cancer cases are due to continuous heavy smoking. The risk of coronary heart disease and stroke is also 2-4 times higher for those smoking cigarettes compared to those who do not. These statistics are even higher for chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) like chronic bronchitis, asthma, or emphysema: around 80-90% of these cases are attributed to heavy smoking.
Quite a number of studies have shown a correlation between bad health effects and cigarette smoking. And although the exact links and causes between smoking and cancer or stroke are still unknown to this day, the correlation is definitely there.
For example, the heightened build-up of fat in the arteries is due to smoking. The effects of smoking on the lungs due to tar in the alveoli are also apparent. Scientific studies really are not much need to serve as proof for this.
Cigarette smoking also comes with a ton of carcinogenic compounds that range from benzene and tar to nitrosamines. Since carbon monoxide is also present in smoking, it results in a deprivation of oxygen in the blood stream.
Quitting smoking is not an easy task that can happen overnight. In fact, only a measly 6% succeed in stopping smoking on their first attempt in doing so. It is however, not impossible to belong in that group and help others stop smoking in the process.
Quitting smoking requires real willpower. But getting stop smoking aids is also an available option. There are stop smoking aids in the form of patches, inhalers, and even nicotine gum to alleviate nicotine addiction. Non-nicotine alternatives are available, to, in the form of zyban, which is actually an anti-depressant.
When you first start out on the road to no smoking, you may gain weight. And the nicotine addiction will cause serious cravings. However, remind yourself of the long term benefits and this may help you really stop smoking.
Within a few years of quitting smoking, the risks of heart disease and stroke will diminish greatly, as your skin returns to its original state. Your overall energy level will also rise and your body and mind will both be much healthier.
Quit smoking now and gain these benefits today for a new you.
