Each year more Americans die of smoke related diseases than AIDS, drug abuse, car accidents and murder combined!!

Tobacco contains approximately 4,000 chemicals, 200 of which are known to be poisonous. Among these numerous chemicals is Nicotine, so highly habit forming it's been compared to heroin and cocaine addictions. Nicotine raises a chemical in the brain known as Dopamine, which initially stimulates then tranquilizes and sedates the user. This "hit" of Nicotine takes seven seconds to reach the brain and the first puff - two times as fast as heroin when injected into a vein.

So, other than becoming a nasty habit, what can smoking do to your body . . . ? A Lot! Smoking effects virtually every organ in the body. It increases heart rate; constricts blood vessels, which raises blood pressure, weakens the heart and increases the risk for stroke; dulls taste buds, causes bad breath and contributes to gum disease; causes impotence and decreased sex drive in men and increases infertility in women; causes reflux (heart burn) and stomach ulcers; causes premature facial wrinkling; leads to cirrhosis of the liver; and causes cancer of the lungs, mouth, esophagus, larynx, bladder, cervix and vertebrae. Also, individuals that smoke tend to suffer from more upper respiratory tract infections and have a longer recovery period. Mothers that smoke during pregnancy have a higher risk of miscarriage and still births, as well as low birth weight babies.

Tips to stop smoking:
1. Set a date for quitting
2. Remove cigarettes, ashtrays, matches, lighters, from your home, office or car
3. Be prepared for physical withdrawal symptoms. You may choose a nicotine replacement product
4. Put an end to the ritual, concentrate on breaking habits associated with smoking
5. Keep a supply of low calorie snacks handy
6. Spend more time in places that don't allow smoking
7. Tell people your quitting
8. Plan what you do instead of smoking
9. Call a friend or join a support group
10. Remember to be patient. Different approaches work for different people. You may need to try several before you're successful!

The good news is if you stop smoking your lungs begin to heal immediately! If you remain smoke free for 5-15 years your risk of many diseases such as lung and other cancers, ulcers, stroke and heart disease are the same as those who have never smoked! Remember, smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death in the United States!