Smoking kills. It accounts for about 100,000 deaths every year, in the UK. 10 million people in the UK smoke. Not only does smoking kill smokers, it kills people around them too! Around 11,000 second hand smokers die every year.
Everyday 800 children visit the doctor, suffering from the effects of inhaling someone else’s smoke. Only really inconsiderate or ignorant people would do that, smoke around children. Not only does it harm children, it could show them that smoking is an OK thing to do and I believe it could encourage them to smoke when they are older.
Adding to that, research by the Royal College of Physicians, says that more than 80% of second-hand smoke is invisible, doesn't have a smell and contains harmful cancer-causing toxins and poisons.
Why is smoking harmful?
It is bad for your health because a cigarette contains the following 3 substances:
1. Nicotine. An addictive substance that can cause people to become dependant on it.
2. Tar. A sticky substance that can cause cancer and emphysema.
3. Carbon monoxide. A dangerous gas that can reduce oxygen intake by replacing oxygen in the blood.
Two thirds of smokers start before they are 18. Though it is illegal to buy cigarettes for under 18s, consumption is legal for 16 year olds and possession is not an offence as long as they are not being consumed underage. The legal age for smoking is 16 because otherwise there would be a lot more teen’s breaking the law.
But why is smoking legal at all?
The government makes a lot of money by increasing the taxes on cigarettes. This can provide money for schools, hospitals and other public amenities. The tobacco industry also provides jobs to thousands of people throughout the world, particularly in poorer countries so banning smoking would have a negative effect on people around the world.
So, 10 million people in the UK smoke and 100 thousand die every year. You don't want to be one of them. Even though buying cigarettes can be good for the economy, it is terrible for your health and I would advise all of you to stay away from cigarettes as it can lead your lungs to look like this:
Thank you everyone, for listening.
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