The effects of smoking can be found throughout a smoker's body, and also throughout their life. From coughs to wrinkles, to impotence and eventually death, the effects of smoking highlight just how insanely self-destructive the habit is. To quit smoking, click on the banner above.
Sociological Effects of Smoking
Many smokers ironically begin smoking as an attempt to fit in. The first effects of smoking are seen as positive - acceptance, looking good, feeling comfortable and somehow strong willed. All of these effects of smoking are illusory - and eventually the opposite becomes apparent to the point of depression, anti-social behaviour and stinking of smoke!
The smelly and stinky effects of smoking are an obvious turn-off for most people. Whilst smokers may try their best to wear masking odours, wash their hair to the point of ruining it, or chew mints, there is nothing that can be done to hide. Even subconsciously, everyone knows as soon as a smoker is around because the smell of cigarette smoke travels far. The repulsive subconscious association most non-smokers have with smoking is a barrier for most smokers. Hostile body language is a more subtle effect of smoking, as people stand further away, and negative associations are soon built up against the smoker subconsciously, with neither party being fully aware. It is also repulsive for those who have successfully quit smoking to see others who are still trapped - and may even be tempting for those who have quit smoking to start again if they have unresolved habitual urges.
The increasing level of smoking bans is making it more and more difficult for smokers to fit into a normal community - without craving a cigarette. Smoke free sites are being created everyday, with workplaces, shopping malls, restaurants and hospitals all making the positive step to go smoke free. Whilst many smoke free sites make an attempt to help people to quit smoking, they are only superficial and do not focus on the relevant issues of problem.
Financial Effects of Smoking
The only people who are better off from the smoking are the tobacco companies, and the Government. Each recieve billions and billions of pounds or dollars from profits and taxes. Most smokers have no idea how much they really spend - but when you find out how much it costs the motivation to quit smoking is likely to be increased. It's not just the financial cost of cigarettes - its the time and effort buying them, smoking them, the sick days off work, the lost opportunities, the lost friends or social contacts, and the cost of being cared for when suffering a long and slow death.
