Photo bySara KurfeßonUnsplash

Growing up in the 60s and 70s, cigarettes were far more common than they are today. Smoking was allowed in airplanes, offices, and even hospital rooms. I remember family trips in the car, where I was exposed to hours of secondhand smoke from both of my parents. They were not bad people; they just didn't know any better. Since then, we have learned much about the dangers of smoking, not only to tobacco users but also to those around them.

Smokers expose themselves to a number of health issues among them:

• Lung Cancer
• Colorectal Cancer
• Blindness

Risks to those exposed to second-hand smoke:

• Several forms of cancer
• Chronic lung infections
• Ear infections

The good news is that cigarette use is at an 80-year low. The Gallup survey company has been tracking this important health issue since 1944. The latest data, compiled last month, showed that 11% of Americans used cigarettes in the last week. This number matches the low mark set in 2022. Usage peaked in 1954 when 45% of Americans used cigarettes.

• 1972—43%
• 1990—27%
• 2005—25%

It seems we have gotten the message.

What do you think?

Do you smoke or allow others to smoke in your home?

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