Let’s be honest: smoking can be difficult to quit because nicotine creates a feeling of relaxation and pleasure. It is also important to weigh in that smoking tobacco puts one at risk for cancer, cardiac arrest, pulmonary disorders and several health issues. 

What is Smoking? 

When you inhale and exhale smoke from a plant material which is burning and is wrapped in a roll-like form, it is known as smoking. When you smoke a cigarette, the smoke goes down your airways and into your lungs, then enters your bloodstream, reaching your brain and other organs. This blog is specifically about smoking tobacco cigarettes.

What is a Tobacco Cigarette Made Up Of? 

Cigarettes that are commercially produced are composed of: 

• Plant material: The leaf stems of processed and dried tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) is used in tobacco cigarettes. 
• A rolling wrapping paper 
• Butt of the cigarette or filter: This butt traps the larger parts of the half burned tobacco while the smoke goes into your mouth. 

Why Do People Smoke? 

Individuals smoke for different reasons which may include:

1. Nicotine Addiction: Cigarettes contain nicotine which is generally highly addictive. Many people begin smoking to experience the effects of nicotine, leading to pleasure or relaxation.
2. Social Influences: Peer pressure and social settings can significantly affect smoking patterns. Many individuals start smoking as their friends or family do. Some may even do it to fit in with a certain group.
3. Stress Relief: Some individuals believe that smoking helps them manage stress or anxiety. Smoking itself may act as a brief distraction or a way to take a short break from stressful situations.
4. Habit: For several smokers, smoking turns into a routine that becomes difficult to stop. This may be usually linked to specific times, activities, or surroundings.
5. Curiosity: Some people begin smoking merely out of curiosity or to experiment, usually during their teenage years.
6. Cultural Factors: In certain cultures, smoking is accepted and even encouraged, which makes the individuals start smoking. 
7. Weight Control: Some people smoke with the belief that it assists them in controlling their weight or helps in suppressing their appetite.

Understanding these motivations can be essential for addressing smoking behavior and helping those who want to quit.

What is the Impact of Smoking? 

Smoking is linked to a large variety of serious diseases that can have a colossal effect on health. It harms almost every organ of the body. Here are some of the most significant diseases associated with smoking:

1. Lung cancer: This is the most popular disease related to smoking. Cigarette smoke contains numerous carcinogens that can lead to mutations in lung cells, resulting in cancer. Lung cancer is usually diagnosed at an advanced stage, making it one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths.
2. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): This group of lung diseases, which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, is primarily caused by smoking. COPD leads to breathing difficulties, chronic cough, and reduced airflow, significantly affecting quality of life.
3. Heart Disease: Smoking increases the risk of coronary heart disease, which can lead to heart attacks. It damages blood vessels, raises blood pressure, and promotes the buildup of plaque in arteries, all of which contribute to cardiovascular problems.
4. Stroke: Smokers are at a higher risk of stroke due to the effects of smoking on blood vessels and circulation. A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, leading to potential brain damage.
5. Respiratory Infections: Smokers are more susceptible to respiratory infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis. The damage to the lungs and immune system makes it harder for the body to fight off infections.
6. Diabetes: Smoking is associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It can make diabetes management more difficult and increase the risk of complications.
7. Bladder Cancer: Smokers are at a greater risk for bladder cancer as harmful chemicals in tobacco can accumulate in the bladder and damage its cells.
8. Other Cancers: In addition to lung and bladder cancer, smoking increases the risk of several other cancers, including those of the mouth, throat, esophagus, pancreas, kidney, and stomach.

Overall, smoking poses serious health risks that can lead to life-threatening diseases. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce these risks and improve overall health.