Tobacco use remains a major health concern in the United States, being the leading cause of preventable death. Despite the known risks, nearly 20% of Americans use tobacco daily, whether cigarettes or smokeless products. Lisa Warren, a Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist and Director of Iredell Cardiopulmonary Rehab, provides insights on the health implications of tobacco use and strategies for quitting.
Warren highlights the serious health conditions linked to tobacco use, stating that “in addition to lung disease, heart attack, stroke, respiratory disease and cancer are serious conditions associated with tobacco use.” She explains that nicotine causes blood to thicken by leaving a sticky residue, which results in sluggish blood flow and plaque buildup in arteries and veins.
Even non-users face risks from tobacco-related illnesses due to secondhand and thirdhand smoke. Warren notes that these also pose significant health hazards.
The American Lung Association reports a decrease in cigarette, smokeless tobacco, and pipe smoking, but an increase in e-cigarette use and vaping. Warren attributes this trend to insufficient education regarding these products, despite their associated health risks.
“E-cigarettes and vapes are often advertised as a method to help you stop smoking, but they come with their own laundry list of health hazards,” Warren emphasizes. She warns of chemicals such as acetate in these products, which can cause lung damage and other health issues.
Quitting tobacco products is challenging due to their addictive nature. The Oral Cancer Foundation equates nicotine’s addictiveness to that of heroin, cocaine, or amphetamines. Warren advises that the most effective quitting method is one that individuals can maintain. She notes, “Much like a healthy lifestyle or an exercise program, not all methods are effective for everyone,” and suggests options like gradually decreasing usage, prescription medications, and support groups.
Iredell Cardiopulmonary Rehab offers a free smoking cessation program named Fresh Start, in partnership with the American Lung Association, aiming to assist individuals seeking to quit smoking. Interested parties can contact Angela Little at 704-878-4558 for more information.
