Introduction

Overview
Cigarette smoking is the leading contributor to preventable deaths in the United States. It is estimated that in the U.S., 25.9 million men (23.9 percent) and 20.7 million women (18.1 percent) are smokers. Quitting smoking is one of the best things people can do for their heart and overall health.

According to the Surgeon General, smoking contributes to or causes over 25 specific diseases. In 2007, tobacco use was blamed for more than 437,000 deaths in the United States. Researchers estimate that smoking cuts an average of 10 years off a person's life expectancy. These "lost" years, however, can be regained. Recent studies show that a smoker who quits by age 35 can live as long as non-smokers.

Who is Affected
In addition to affecting the smoker, cigarette use also affects all individuals who are exposed to secondhand smoke. Also called "involuntary smoking," secondhand smoke is responsible for about 3,000 lung cancer deaths among non-smokers each year. Additionally, 300,000 children are affected by respiratory tract infections annually due to exposure to secondhand smoke. It is estimated that over 250 infants die each year of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) from inhaling secondhand smoke.

Physical Symptoms of Smoking
There is hardly an area of the body that is not affected by cigarette smoking. Here is a list of just a few of the many symptoms most smokers can expect to see in their shortened lifetime:

• Headaches
• Tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath
• Yellow teeth
• Bronchial infections
• Coughing and wheezing
• Depressed immune system
  
• Heartburn and ulcers
• High blood pressure
• Cancer of the lungs, mouth, throat, esophagus, bladder, and pancreas
  

The good news is that the sooner you quit smoking, the sooner your body will start to repair itself. Many of the damaging symptoms of smoking are reversible, and life can return to its health and normal state.

Treatment
There are many methods used for smoking cessation. Many people choose to receive professional help from their doctor, nurse, or a trained counselor. Others choose nicotine replacement therapies, such as nicotine patches, gum, lozenges, and nasal spray. Ongoing medical research has aided in the development of new prescription drugs which assist in kicking the habit. There are also alternate forms of treatment, such as psychosocial behavior therapy.