Smoking Tobacco, a Preventable Disease

Do you know that even with all the information available about the negative effects of smoking that there are still nearly 12 out of 100 adults in the United States still smoking cigarettes?  

This adds up to about 28.3 million people ages 18 and up in our country.  According to the CDC there are a little over 488,000 deaths per year caused by this habit.

It is a frustrating statistic because you and I are easily able to avoid this disease simply by not picking up the habit. 

There is good news because the number of smokers is declining.  That is hopeful.

The CDC has many, many statistics about smokers but they also have recommendations for ways to stop smoking if you have started.

Change your environment by removing any cigarettes, ashtrays, lighters from your home and work environments.  In addition, wash your clothes to remove the smoky small.

You should reach out for support to help you.  Avoid situations where you would normally smoke.  Tell people you are trying to quit to try and get them to stop smoking around you.  

Call a friend if you need help getting through a craving.  Talk to your medical professional too for suggestions or encouraging words.

You can try and distract yourself, avoid tempting situations and find safe substitutes for cigarettes.  Some suggestions are toothpicks, straws or cinnamon sticks, a squeeze ball or a pencil for doodling.

Once you start smoking it can be hard to stop but it’s not impossible.  Take it day by day and look for support when you need it.  Your lungs and body will be much healthier if you are able to kick this habit.

Private Home Health Care hopes that you can work on stopping smoking with some of these recommendations.  There are many more online if you can access a computer.  We wish you the best of luck!