The Dangers of Smoking: Myths and Health Impacts

This chapter explores the physiological responses to smoking and dispels common misconceptions about nicotine, emphasizing that the harmful effects are largely due to other chemicals in cigarettes. It provides alarming statistics on smoking's mortality impact in Australia, detailing its direct link to over 20,000 deaths annually and various diseases, including cancers and respiratory issues. The chapter also highlights the immediate and long-term health implications of smoking, stressing the urgent need for cessation and the broader context of smoking-related health risks.