May 30, 2003 – US health authorities are concerned about the emergence of a new category of smokers, occasional smokers. In some states, these individuals represent up to 30% of the total number of smokers.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a government agency, admits that it does not fully understand what underlies this phenomenon. The ever higher cost of cigarettes and the social ostrascism of smokers are questioned, as is the offer by tobacco companies of “flavored” products (with vanilla, mint chocolate, citrus fruits, etc.) that directly target those looking for a product to consume with an alcoholic beverage or dessert.
The CDC also believes that “part-time” smokers underestimate the risks to their health. The agency notes that occasional smoking is hardly less harmful than daily smoking, if studies that have looked at the issue are to be believed. A European study even found that daily smokers who cut their consumption in half had as much risk as others of suffering from smoking-related diseases.
In addition, British researchers have discovered that smoking seems to have a negative impact on the memory of smokers between the ages of 40 and 50. The latter performed less well on memory tests than non-smokers of the same age. The relationship between smoking and memory loss seemed most evident in individuals who smoked 20 or more cigarettes per day. Researchers believe that chemicals in tobacco or the high blood pressure that can result from smoking are potentially responsible for this situation.
Finally, several methods are available to those who want to quit smoking. Recently, a study claimed that 18% of 600 smokers who subscribed to a website offering help and advice quit three months later.1.
The arsenal of traditional medicine is also well stocked. Other smokers have had good results with hypnotherapy, acupuncture, and various natural products.
Jean-Benoit Legault – PasseportSanté.net
According to Reuters Health and Associated Press; May 26, 2003.
1. Feil EG, Noell J, Lichtenstein E, Boles SM, McKay HG. Evaluation of an Internet-based smoking cessation program: lessons learned from a pilot study. Nicotine Tob Res 2003 Apr; 5 (2): 189-94. [Consulté le 30 mai 2003].
