Behavior Health and Wellness Blog
Smoking significantly increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Smokers have a 30% to 40% higher chance of getting diabetes compared to non-smokers, with the risk rising the more you smoke. Nicotine in tobacco raises blood sugar levels, while the harmful chemicals in cigarettes cause inflammation, making it harder for the body to regulate blood sugar. Smoking also contributes to belly fat, which is a major risk factor for
Today, marijuana is the most commonly used drug worldwide, with around 188 million users, or about 2.5% of people aged 15-64. In the U.S., marijuana use among people aged 12 and older jumped from 11% (25.8 million) in 2002 to 17.5% (48.2 million) in 2019. Every year, 2-3 million new users start, and around 1.1% become clinically dependent. Among high schoolers, annual marijuana use rose to 23.9% in 2017, with
Cannabis use can lead to disorientation, anxiety, and feelings of paranoia. It is linked to an increased risk of developing psychosis, including hallucinations and paranoia, as well as long-lasting mental disorders like schizophrenia. The risk of schizophrenia is especially higher for those who start using cannabis at a younger age or use it frequently. Additionally, cannabis use has been associated with depression, social anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts or attempts.
Smoking is a major risk factor for developing eye conditions like macular degeneration, but unlike aging or genetics, it’s a factor you can control. Research increasingly links environmental pollutants, including cigarette smoke, to eye diseases, with the CDC highlighting the connection between smoking and disorders such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Smoking can negatively affect eye health by decreasing circulation, increasing inflammation, and even contributing to blood clots. Taking action