Smoking, vaping, alcohol

Smoking

A practice in which a substance is burned and the resulting smoke is inhaled to be tasted and absorbed into the bloodstream.

Health Risks of Smoking

Causes 16 types of cancers, including lung, throat, bladder, and stomach cancers; leads to DNA damage, oxidative stress, and chronic inflammation; weakens the immune system.

Vaping

Relates to the use of e-cigarettes/vapes, which are battery-powered devices that turn a liquid into an aerosol inhaled into the lungs.

Impacts of Vaping

Long-term health impacts are unknown; can damage cells and DNA; causes irritation to mouth, nose, throat, and lungs; contains nicotine and carcinogens.

Definition of Alcohol Misuse

Excessive consumption of alcohol, including alcoholism and binge drinking.

Alcoholism

A condition where a person cannot stop drinking once they have started or has a constant desire to drink alcohol.

Binge Drinking

In Australia, defined as consuming more than four standard drinks in one sitting.

Impacts of Alcohol Use

Includes cancer, liver disease, injuries, mental health issues, and negative prenatal outcomes.

Short-Term Effects of Alcohol

Impairment of judgment, coordination, reaction times, and increase in accident risks.

Long-Term Effects of Alcohol

Includes brain damage, liver disease, increased blood pressure, weakened immune system, and weight gain.

Smoking Leads To

Cardiovascular disease, cancer, and increased risk of asthma.

Impacts of Smoking and Vaping

Contributes to cardiovascular disease, various forms of cancer, and poor prenatal and infant health outcomes.