As many of us see across campus, smoking is not an uncommon habit among students. Whether it is social smoking, or habitual smoking, this custom is surprisingly prevalent for our generation. Below are facts about smoking in college as well as reasons why the habit should be kicked to the curb.
The facts:
- 27% of college students are smokers.
- One third of young adults 18-25 smoke.
- 65% are social smokers.
- Most students claim they can “go without smoking” but crave cigarettes during social situations like drinking.
- Participants in a 2011 study said that they did not associate social smoking with health risks.
- Only 6.4 percent smoked in high school.
- 18-24 year old smokers are considered “entry level smokers”.
- Universities consider smoking a “minor health concern” compared to other health related issues.
- 80% of club-goers say they would rather attend a party that is smoke-free.
- Some universities have initiated smoking cessation programs, which reward cash prizes and other gifts to students who successfully quit.
Reasons You Shouldn’t Do it:
- Smoking is the most preventable cause of death in the United States.
- Smokers can die up to ten years earlier than the average person.
- The highest percentage of smokers is between the ages of 21 and 34.
- Smoking can cause damage and cancer in almost every organ in the human body.
- Cigarettes are the cause of one in five deaths every year.
- In addition to lung cancer, smoking can cause heart and blood vessel diseases.
