Smoking Costs $1.4 Trillion

Smoking Costs $1.4 Trillion

Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of preventable death. According to a recent study, it even costs the world's economy approximately $1.4 trillion, while also consuming roughly 1/20th of global healthcare spending.

Researchers from the World Health Organization (WHO) and American Cancer Society made these startling revelations earlier this month, saying some 40% of the costs associated with smoking falls on the shoulders of developing countries. These costs include $422 billion for healthcare treatment, as well as countless indirect costs associated from labor loss and illness and death.

When you think of the effects of cigarette smoking, labor loss probably doesn't come to mind. After all, how many times have you heard of someone calling in to work sick because they were smoking? Probably never, but that doesn't mean smoking has no effect on workers' health. On the contrary, smoking contributes to a variety of diseases and illnesses, many of which can force workers to take time off.

For the study, researchers analyzed data from 152 countries, which collectively represents 97% of the world's smoking population. This includes data from the UN and World Bank on smoking-related diseases and illness, as well as employment rates and national GDP. Researchers discovered that diseases associated with smoking accounted for some 12% of all deaths among the working population between ages 30 and 69.

"Smoking imposes a heavy economic burden throughout the world, particularly in Europe and North America, where the tobacco epidemic is most advanced," said the study's lead author. "These findings highlight the urgent need for countries to implement stronger tobacco control measures to address these costs."

Kicking the habit is easier said than done, however. While many smokers want to quit, it's often an uphill battle that requires multiple attempts. There are organizations out there that offer free assistance, which should be considered if you are trying to quit smoking. With motivation and determination, you can kick this habit once and for all. And in doing so, you'll reduce your risk of many harmful diseases and illness.

This study was published in the journal Tobacco Control.

Jan 31st 2017

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