Smoking risks quiz

How much do you know about smoking and its risks? Try taking the following true-or-false quiz. You may be surprised at how much you know.

#1. Tobacco use increases your risk for lung cancer.

True! As the cigarette packages say, smoking causes lung cancer. The vast majority of lung cancer is associated with smoking either cigarettes or cigars.

#2. Smoking increases your risk for heart disease and stroke.

True! Smoking is associated with an increase in heart attacks and stroke. Smoking damages and constricts blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the heart and brain. Your life can depend on stopping the smoking habit.

#3. Chewing tobacco is safe.

False! Chewing tobacco has almost the same risks as smoking tobacco does. People who chew are more likely to get mouth and throat cancer rather than lung cancer.

#4. If you smoke as a teenager, you are more likely to smoke as an adult.

True! People who smoke as adults are more likely to have smoked before they were 18. In addition, if you smoke as a teenager, you will probably have a harder time quitting as an adult.

#5. It is easy to stop smoking.

False! To quit smoking is a difficult, but rewarding, process. Smoking is an addictive habit that is very hard to break. There are many new products available to decrease the urge for nicotine. Some help relieve withdrawal symptoms by providing a temporary source of nicotine that is less than the amount received in cigarettes. Some products even aid physical withdrawal symptoms. Start breathing clean air. Talk to your healthcare provider, or contact your American Lung Association.

#6. Second hand smoke does not hurt anyone.

False! Anyone in a house or business where people smoke is more likely to develop asthma, ear infections, and chronic coughs. In addition, second hand smoke can cause lung cancer. It is important to try to remain smoke-free as much as possible. If people in your house smoke, ask them to do it outside. They are hurting everyone, not just themselves.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File HEAL3131.RF2 VRS# 6457 Data Version 7.0 Copyright 1999 McKesson Health Solutions LLC. All rights reserved.