Trading Addictions? Put Down the Pack

Submitted by Angieboss Tue 12/14/2010

Share on Tumblr

What would an AA meeting be without alot of smokers congregating outside, trying to get one more drag in before the meeting starts?

Those of us who have ever worked on giving up an addiction, know the temptation of trading one for another. While none of us would argue that smoking is safe, sometimes we rationalize that it's better than the alternative, right?

The surgeon general’s latest report on smoking just came out and basically warns us - not so fast.

The report, released Thursday and titled “How Tobacco Smoke Causes Disease,” cites the results of new research at the cellular level to expand on the previous warnings of cancer, heart disease and secondhand smoke.

The surgeon general, Dr. Regina Benjamin, wrote:

When individuals inhale cigarette smoke, either directly or secondhand, they are inhaling more than 7,000 chemicals: hundreds of these are hazardous, and at least 69 are known to cause cancer. The chemicals are rapidly absorbed by cells in the body and produce disease-causing cellular changes.As for young smokers, the surgeon general says modern products are not only more attractive, but also more lethal, than ever before:

The design and contents of tobacco products make them more attractive and addictive than ever before. Cigarettes today deliver nicotine more quickly from the lungs to the heart and brain.

Maybe it's time for the 1 in five Americans who smoke to consider quitting?

Try our self tests for:

: Call to Speak to a Specialist

Call 877-425-7312 any time to discuss treatment options if you or a loved one has a problem with addiction.

Treatment Center State and City Search

Select a state from the list below to begin your search for a treatment center that is right for you.

Support Groups

SupportGroups.com

For individuals, friends and families who are looking to connect during life's challenging times. Share personal experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.

Online Support Groups

The information provided on MyAddiction.com is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her health professional. This information is solely for informational and educational purposes. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Neither the owners or employees of MyAddiction.com nor the author(s) of site content take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading this site. Always speak with your primary health care provider before engaging in any form of self treatment. Please see our Legal Statement for further information.