There are many species of tobacco found around the world and these are cultivated very much like other agricultural products. Tobacco has seen many changes and cross breeds since the discovery of its original form, which was used by the Native Americans throughout history. The tobacco industry has seen growth despite the proven health risks and smoking cessation campaigns. The health risks have prompted several governments around the world to impose bans on tobacco products and their guidelines for their advertisements.
History
Tobacco has a long history dating back to before the European settlers arrived in America; Native American’s had already been using tobacco during religious ceremonies and special occasions. When the European explorers settled in the Americas they began to use the tobacco for recreational use in pipes and as cigars. This strain of tobacco was very strong and so a filtered pipe or water pipe had to be used, since only a small amount of the smoke could cause damage the lungs if left unfiltered. Tobacco saw a rise in popularity when the Europeans began to trade the product. Smoking and tobacco have existed for the entirety of United States history. Eventually the health risks associated with smoking came to light and the government began to impose regulations on cigarette companies after scientific proof of the severe health problems which could be caused by the use of tobacco products. The level of nicotine has doubled in the years following these discoveries which have made tobacco products much more addicting. Since then pharmaceutical companies have developed many smoking cessation products to assist those looking to kick the unhealthy habit and promote a longer life span.
Health Impact
Many health problems can be caused by the use of tobacco products. Cigarettes and other tobacco products have been scientifically linked to causing lung cancer and many other cancers as well as damaging the cardiovascular system. Smoking causes a reduction in circulation and a narrowing of the blood vessels which can promote strokes and heart attacks. Lung conditions such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis have been linked to cigarette smoke as well. These health impacts are not only a danger to those who smoke, but are also a danger to people who are exposed to second hand smoke. The body’s immune system is reduced when smoking which decreases the ability to fight off diseases such as pneumonia and other serious infections. Nicotine has been found to impact the central nervous system. Tobacco can cause anxiety and other such disorders making the ability to quit very difficult. A new breed of tobacco that was introduced in 1971 called Y1 which had double the nicotine content making the drug as addictive as heroine or other severely addictive narcotics.
Social Impact
Throughout history tobacco use has been accepted socially until the late 1990’s when the government began imposing restrictions on tobacco use and advertising due to the health implications that had been found. Smoking has begun to be a socially frowned upon habit that isolates those who smoke. People are becoming educated on the effects that second hand smoke has, so social acceptance of smoking is declining.
Economic Impact
The early economic impact of tobacco sales proved to be very lucrative. After the scientific studies were conducted and released there have been findings that show a greater economic negative impact due to the health conditions caused by tobacco use. Countries worldwide are finding that the burden of health care needed by those who are chronically and terminally ill due to the use of tobacco products is consistently more than the health care costs needed by those who are non-smokers.
How to Quit Smoking
Many countries around the world have initiated a stop smoking campaign. These campaigns include resources to stop the extremely addictive habit. They have found that by funding the resources to help people quit smoking, it will relieve the negative economic and health impact that tobacco has on their country. Listed below are some resources that can help a person stop smoking.