Behavior Health and Wellness Blog

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Smoking and Cancer

Cancer is a term used to describe a variety of illnesses characterized by the uncontrollable division of abnormal cells, which can infiltrate surrounding tissues. These rogue cells have the capacity to metastasize, traveling to distant parts of the body via the bloodstream and lymphatic system, which typically function to eliminate toxins. With over 100 distinct types, cancers are typically named based on the organ or cell type in which they originate. For instance, lung cancer initiates in the lungs, while laryngeal cancer starts in the voice box, or larynx.

Symptoms

The CDC has created a list of common symptoms which may include:

  • A thickening or lump in any part of the body
  • Weight loss or gain with no known reason
  • A sore that does not heal
  • Hoarseness or a cough that does not go away
  • A hard time swallowing
  • Discomfort after eating
  • Changes in bowel or bladder habits
  • Unusual bleeding or discharge
  • Feeling weak or very tired

If you quit smoking your risk of 12 types of cancers is lowered.

  • Within 5-10 years of quitting, your chance of getting cancer of the mouth, throat, or voice box drops by half.
  • Within 10 years of quitting, your chance of getting cancer of the bladder, esophagus, or kidney decreases.
  • Within 10-15 years after you quit smoking, your risk of lung cancer drops by half.
  • Within 20 years after you quit smoking, your risk of getting cancer of the mouth, throat, voice box, or pancreas drops to close of that of someone who does not smoke. Also, the risk of cervical cancer drops by about half.

Embracing a healthier lifestyle can significantly lower your risk of cancer, with quitting smoking being one of the most impactful steps you can take. By prioritizing regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding tobacco products, you can empower yourself to reduce the likelihood of developing this devastating disease. Remember, every positive choice you make for your health today is an investment in a brighter, cancer-free tomorrow.

每年有數千人死於抽菸。

Cigarette smoking kills thousands of people every year.

Banning tobacco flavors is a vital measure in safeguarding the health of young people, reducing the allure of smoking, and deterring the onset of a harmful habit.

Reference: https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/diseases/cancer.html

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