As mentioned by John Oliver, the popularity of tobacco is overwhelmingly negative; however, the profits that are made by tobacco farmers and cigarette companies are the highest it has ever been. This may be due to the fact that the smoking trend may have decreased in America; however, it may have increased around the world due to the increase in population. Third world countries' population, for example, is unevenly distributed among the population of developed countries. Sociological factors affect this disproportion, but the reality is even more terrifying. People in third world countries drink, smoke and take on illicit drugs in order to escape their poverty stricken lives. The drug use increases further as people realize that a hefty profit can be made. This encourages drug use and then creates the never ending cycle of destruction.
A study, that came out on March 4th, 2015, states that 2 out of every 3 smokers die due to tobacco related causes. It was previously assumed that 50% of smokers die due to smoking, but recent death from underdeveloped countries suggest otherwise bring the total from 50% to around 66%. At first, sociologist and statisticians analyzed deaths from first world countries, because it was hard to keep track of all of the deaths occurring in the third world, but as recording and treatments got better, deaths and illnesses became easier to document. Unfortunately, this may not even be the real number, it may be even up to 75% but the data so far hasn't supported this claim.
So, what is the way to stop this from occurring? Just avoid smoking. Life may be stressful or you may want to look cool, but if it affects your health, why even bother? Another thing, e-cigs do not work. Try to be addicted to something else and hopefully you will benefit :)
So, what is the way to stop this from occurring? Just avoid smoking. Life may be stressful or you may want to look cool, but if it affects your health, why even bother? Another thing, e-cigs do not work. Try to be addicted to something else and hopefully you will benefit :)
The cycle of poverty and the expensive addiction is very sad. I do not support tobacco use, but I do understand that is very addictive. It is a lot easier to see that it is a problem and say stop than actually stoping.
ReplyDeleteIt's so interesting to see how a country that smoked for the "cool" status a couple decades ago has completely shifted to one very much against it. Looking at it now, the ability to have such a cultural shift may be a huge privilege because like you said, less developed countries sometimes can't afford NOT to smoke because it can curb appetite and provide an escape from reality.
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