Health Impacts
Health Impacts of Commercial Tobacco Use
1. Immediate Health Effects
- Addiction: Nicotine, a key ingredient in commercial tobacco, is highly addictive. Even occasional use can lead to dependence.
- Breathing Problems: Smoking or vaping irritates the lungs, causing coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
- Decreased Physical Performance: Tobacco use reduces energy levels and lung capacity, affecting sports and daily activities.
2. Long-Term Health Risks
- Lung Disease: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and chronic bronchitis are common among tobacco users.
- Heart Disease: Smoking doubles the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
- Cancer: Tobacco use is linked to cancers of the lungs, throat, mouth, and more.
3. Impact on Youth and Teens
- Brain Development: Nicotine exposure during adolescence can harm brain development, affecting memory, focus, and mood.
- Gateway to Other Substances: Youth who use tobacco are more likely to experiment with other harmful substances.
The Health Risks of Secondhand and Thirdhand Smoke
Even if someone doesn’t smoke, they can still be harmed by tobacco through secondhand and thirdhand smoke.
- Secondhand Smoke: Causes respiratory infections, asthma attacks, and increases the risk of heart disease and cancer in non-smokers.
- Thirdhand Smoke: The toxic residue left behind on surfaces, clothes, and furniture can harm babies, children, and elders.
Health Disparities in Native Communities
- Higher Rates of Smoking: Native populations experience higher rates of commercial tobacco use than the general population.
- Chronic Illness: Higher incidences of diabetes, heart disease, and cancer in Tribal communities are often linked to tobacco use.
- Targeted Marketing: Tobacco companies exploit Native imagery and provide cheaper tobacco products to our communities.
Why Protecting Health Matters
As stewards of our culture and traditions, it’s essential to safeguard the health of our people for future generations. Understanding the risks of commercial tobacco empowers you to take action and lead by example.
Take Action to Promote Health
1. Advocate for Smoke-Free Policies
- Work with community leaders to establish smoke-free homes, cars, and Tribal facilities.
- Promote Tribal legislation banning smoking in public spaces.
2. Educate Your Peers
- Share facts about the health impacts of commercial tobacco through social media, workshops, and community events.
- Emphasize the difference between traditional and commercial tobacco.
3. Support Healthier Choices
- Encourage alternatives like traditional medicine, mindfulness, and physical activity.
Connect individuals to resources for quitting tobacco, such as 1-800-QUIT-NOW or Tribal health programs.