To help deter tobacco use among children and teens, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center staff developed the Iowa Smoking Teens, Chris and Abby. Chris and Abby are healthy non-smokers, who are interested in preventing teen smoking. Chris, a basketball player, has recognized the impact tobacco has on athletic performance. Abby is a teen model that has witnessed the aging and cosmetic affects of tobacco use.
Smoking is the most preventable cause of death. Approximately half of all Americans who continue to smoke will die from their cigarette addiction. Smoking accounts for at least 30 percent of all cancer deaths and 87 percent of lung cancer deaths. Tobacco will kill 50 percent of young persons who start smoking early and keep it up. Half of these people will die in middle age, losing an average of 22 years of normal life expectancy. Smoking is associated with increased risk for cancers of the mouth, pharynx, larynx, esophagus, stomach, pancreas, uterine cervix, kidney, bladder and myeloid leukemia. In addition to cancer, smoking is a major cause of heart disease, stroke, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema, and is associated with stomach ulcers.
Quitting smoking is not easy, but it can be done. More than 46 million Americans have stopped, and it could be the most important thing you will ever do for your health.
For help quitting, contact the Cancer Information Service at the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center. Information Specialists can provide you with a number of tips to help you get started on a life free of cigarettes.
For more information about any cancer concern, contact the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cancer Information Service:
Phone: 800-237-1225
Email: cancer-information@uiowa.edu
Office: 200 Hawkins Drive, 4802 JPP, Iowa City, Iowa
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