Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
Section 12-3 Health Risks 309
Even if you are not smoking, inhaling the smoke of others is still
a health concern. Secondhand smoke is the smoke caused by smoke-
producing substances, such as cigarettes, cigars, and pipes. For people
with lung and heart problems, breathing secondhand smoke can be
very irritating. Children are also highly affected by secondhand smoke.
Studies show that children of smokers are more likely to suffer from
respiratory ailments than children of nonsmokers.
The use of smokeless tobacco products involves health risks as well.
These are products such as chewing tobacco and snuff, which are chewed
or placed against the gums. Their use has been linked to gum cancer
and irritations of the gums and lips.
For people who have never used tobacco products, continuing to
avoid these products is the most health-conscious choice. For people who
have used tobacco products, quitting is one of the best steps they can
take for their health. People who quit smoking enjoy almost immediate
health benefi ts. Within 24 hours, the risk of heart attack decreases. After
three days, breathing becomes easier and lung capacity increases. Within
weeks, the body’s energy level increases.
Alcohol
Alcohol is a depressant drug that is a serious health risk. Health care
for alcohol-related illnesses and accidents costs millions of dollars every
year. Alcohol can damage the brain, liver, stomach, and other organs. It
also interferes with judgment, vision, muscle coordination, and reaction
time. This is why it poses such great danger to people who drive under
its infl uence. See 12-4.
C G C
12-4
Safe drivers avoid the use
of alcohol.