Lets face it smokers find smoking enjoyable, up to a point. That is why many do it. If there were no gain, the practice would rapidly die out. There is a lot of hidden meaning in the innocent phase ’up to a point’. Though the short-run benefits of smoking cigarettes is real, its damage is every bit as real  - and it is potentially more life-threating and long lasting

Several factors have been cited to why someone smokes. Stress, peer pressure and other psychological factors are present for virtually everyone. A large number of people rather use a toxic chemical instead of searching a healthier means of dealing with them. But the long range effects can be dire.

Official estimates that 87% of lung cancer cases could be attributed to long-term, heavy smoking. The odds of stroke are 2 to 4 times higher for smokers than non-smokers. The danger of contracting coronary heart disease are similar. Equally as dreadful are the statistics for COPDs (chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases), such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis or asthma. It is estimated that of COPD cases are among those who smoke.

These specific scientific facts took a few generations to establish. And now there are thousands of case studies that correlate smoking with ill health effects. Although the exact causes and links between smoking and stroke or cancer are still not fully established, the correlation is overwhelming.

The relationship, for example, between the increased build up of fatty deposits on the arteries as a result of smoking is well established. The effects on the lungs as tar builds up in the alveoli are plain to see. The hacking, reduced energy and other effects require no scientific study to know.

Several dozen carcinogenic compounds have been identified in cigarette smoke. They range from such familiar terms as tar and benzene to nitrosamines. Carbon monoxide is present in cigarette smoke, where it binds with hemoglobin to deprive the blood stream of needed oxygen.

To stop smoking isn’t easy. On average, only 6% succeed in stopping smoking permanently the first time they try. But it’s possible to be in that group, and to increase that number by joining it.

As with any long term health decision, it requires willpower. But that mental commitment can be aided by counseling as well as a wide range of products available today. Nicotine gum, patches and inhalers can help. Several non-nicotine alternatives are on the market, too. Anti-depressants like Zyban are an option. A newer prescription drug called Chantix has shown promise.

Dealing with the consequences of stopping smoking are trying. Weight gain is possible. Cravings are almost inevitable, for a while. But the long term benefits of quitting are real, immediate and enormous.

After a few years, the risks of stroke and heart disease return to what they are for non-smokers. The skin regenerates to a normal state. One’s overall energy levels increases and the body and mind are better able to deal with the normal challenges of life.

Quit smoking right now and reap the benefits of a healthier life. The alternative is grim.