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Tobacco

The 1982 US Surgeon General’s Report states, "Cigarette smoking is the major single cause of cancer mortality in the United States."

Tobacco causes 87% of lung cancer deaths and 30% of all cancer deaths, according to the American Cancer Society. Although the reason why cancer increases the risk of developing cancer is not completely known, the chemicals in tobacco greatly affect their user. For example, a smokers' risk of heart disease and stroke are increased because the nicotine in cigarettes lowers body temperature, reduces blood flow, and increases heart rate. Nicotine, one of the chemicals found in tobacco, can also kill a person by slowing and stopping their breathing muscles. Smoking also causes cancers of the larynx, oral cavity, pharynx, and esopagus.

Clearly, smoking increases one's chances of developing cancer. The easiest cure is to stop smoking or to never start! And remember, it is never too late to quit. After only 10 years, the chance of developing lung cancer is reduced to half of a normal smoker's. Not only that, but the risk of developing other diseases like coronary heart disease or stroke is reduced to that of a nonsmoker after only 15 or 5 years, respectively.

One of the main reasons smoking is such a devastating cause of cancer is because it is so addictive. The nicotine in cigarette smoke causes the user to have a pleasant feeling that allures the user to smoke more. Users suffer from withdrawl once they become dependent upon nicotine. Nicotine also lowers skin temperature, reduces blood flow, and increases heart beat rate.