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More studies confirm smoking risks, but are we listening?

More and more scientific study results are being released that confirm the health risks associated with smoking and with exposure to secondhand smoke, but an alarming new survey says people may not be listening.

Earlier this week, a story broke about an Italian study that showed people who resume smoking after hospitalization for a heart attack are more likely to die than those who quit permanently. The study found that patients who relapsed as smokers were three to five times more likely to die than those who stopped smoking, suggesting a need for stronger cessation support.

Meanwhile, another report released this month shows a possible connection between secondhand smoke and behavorial problems and learning disabilities in children. Still another revealed that secondhand smoke exposure in teenagers may lead to a higher risk of hearing loss.

What does all of this reveal? It shows that smoking and exposure to tobacco smoke can have a huge variety of negative health consequences and impacts on quality of life, well beyond what we already understand about cancer risks and cosmetic harm.

But do we truly understand these well-publicized risks that we've known about for so many years? Have we tuned out these messages or has doubt begun to seep in? The results of a recent, major survey on substance abuse and mental health revealed that the number of teenagers and young adults that believe heavy cigarette smoking is a high-risk activity has dropped.

We should all do what we can to be sure that young people and smokers do not forget that smoking and secondhand smoke exposure are indeed tremendously dangerous. Pay attention to these scientific studies and share what you know with smokers and young people in your life. If you know a smoker trying to quit, you can share this website or the 1.800.QUIT.NOW hotline.