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CDC Says Fewer Americans Are Smoking

September 7, 2011 by · Comments Off on CDC Says Fewer Americans Are Smoking 

CDC Says Fewer Americans Are SmokingCDC Says Fewer Americans Are Smoking, The number of U.S. adults who smoke declined by about 1.5% or 3 million people from 2005 to 2010, according to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC also found that the number of smokers – those who turn 30 or more cigarettes a day – fell from 13% in 2005 to 8% in 2010.

“About a third of all current smokers can die from cigarette smoking unless they leave immediately,” said CDC Director Dr. Thomas Frieden. “So we’re talking about preventing more than one million deaths due to the decline.”

Tim McAfee, director of CDC’s Office of Snuff and Health, said the decline in smoking since the Surgeon General’s report in early to mid 1960, largely due to social influences.

“We saw a denormalization of smoking,” said McAfee. He noted the clean air laws that have come into force, and increases taxes on cigarettes. “Therefore, it is a little harder for people to smoke, but people feel they feel they want to reduce -.”

However, the consumption of snuff is still the leading preventable cause of disease, disability and death in the U.S., according to a statement from the CDC. Nearly one in five adults still smoke and 78.2% who do, smoke every day.

“Any decrease in the number of smokers and the number of cigarettes is a step in the right direction,” said Frieden. “However, the consumption of snuff is still a significant health burden for the American people.”

Each year an estimated 443,000 people in the U.S. die from smoking-related causes. However, McAfee warns of another side effect of cigarettes.

“In these economic times, it is important to remember that besides the terrible cost of human life, there is also a significant financial burden placed on smoking in all of us,” he said.

The CDC reports that smoking costs the U.S. and about 193 million dollars annually in medical costs and lost productivity.

Between 2005 and 2010, the percentage of heavy smokers – more than a pack a day – fell significantly, while the percentage of people who smoke less than half a pack a day increased, the report said. Unfortunately, not enough smoke less, Frieden said.

“Smokers not only die much younger than nonsmokers, but the years are alive, they feel much more.”

Quitting is not easy – nicotine is an addictive drug and cigarettes deliver more nicotine than ever before, the CDC reported.

“We know what works: an increase in the price of snuff, strong media campaigns, graphic health warnings on cigarette packets, and 100 percent smoke-free policies, with the help of easy access for those who want to quit “McAfee said.

Smokers can get free resources and help to stop calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW (784-8669) or visit www.smokefree.gov.

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