DID YOU KNOW?
More than 10 times as many Americans have died from cigarette smoking than from all the wars fought by the U.S. combined. [1] Despite decades of awareness, smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death in the country.
KNOW THE RISK
- Cigarette smoking harms nearly every organ of the body and causes a wide range of diseases. [1]
- Smoking causes more than 480,000 deaths each year in the U.S. — that’s about 1 in every 5 deaths. [1]
- It doesn’t just damage the lungs. Smoking can cause cancer of the bladder, stomach, liver, kidney, pancreas, and cervix, and increase the risk of stroke and heart disease. [1]
- Smoking also increases the risk of infertility, pregnancy complications, and weaker bones. [1]
MITIGATE THE RISK
1. If You Don’t Smoke, Don’t Start
- Smoking is highly addictive and hard to quit once started. Avoid peer pressure or stress-related triggers that could lead to a smoking habit.
2. If You Smoke, Quitting Helps at Any Age
- Even long-time smokers can dramatically improve their health by quitting. Talk to your doctor about cessation aids and support programs. [1]
3. The Earlier You Quit, the Greater the Benefit
- Quitting before age 40 reduces the risk of dying from smoking-related disease by about 90%. But it’s never too late to quit and start healing.
4. Quitting Also Protects Those Around You
- Secondhand smoke harms children and non-smoking adults. Quitting eliminates their exposure and improves household health. [1]
SMOKING SAFETY REMINDER
Smoking doesn’t just shorten your life — it affects your quality of life every day. Whether you smoke or know someone who does, take action. Learn the risks, seek help, and break free from addiction.