President's Corner

Science from the University of Minnesota has uncovered new evidence of the ravages of tobacco on our bodies. Similar to the recent Surgeon General’s report in December, this study shows that cigarettes begin to destroy our bodies within minutes after inhaling, specifically affecting our DNA. Researchers focused on a group of chemicals in cigarette smoke called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that damage DNA. The DNA mutations quickly formed from inhaling PAHs may cause lung cancer – American’s number-one cancer killer.

According to coverage in USA Today, “[They said] the speed with which the potentially lethal DNA assault began was comparable to having injected the PAH directly into an individual's bloodstream.”

The report’s findings suggest that because of smoking’s immediate damage to the core cells in our body, the short-term risk for cancer is increased, confirming what the U.S. Surgeon General told us in December: every cigarette does you damage. While many rationalize that smoking is simply an unhealthy habit, our nation must recognize it for what it is - a deadly addiction. Cigarettes are the only product that will kill you when used as directed, and for some, the progression of disease begins within minutes after lighting up.

For smokers, this should be a clarion call to quit. If you’ve tried and failed, try again. On average it takes a smoker 8-11 tries to finally quit successfully. You can increase your chances of quitting by having the right tools at your disposal: a plan, social support and information on nicotine replacement, recognizing your triggers and more. Try www.BecomeAnEx.org for an online community of smokers trying to quit.