Topic: Tobacco
Description
Smoking is the single greatest cause of death and disease in Australia. According to the 2001 National Drug Strategy Household Survey [Australian Institute of Health and Welfare] tobacco use caused 19,000 deaths and 142,500 hospital episodes were attributed to tobacco smoking.
Smoking is a key risk factor for the three diseases that cause most deaths in Australia: ischaemic heart disease, cerebrovascular disease and lung cancer. It is responsible for around 80% of all lung cancer deaths and 20% of all cancer deaths (smoking has been linked to cancers of the mouth, bladder, kidney, stomach and cervix, among others). Smokers are also at increased risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and reduced lung function and smoking in pregnancy increases the risk of health problems for both mother and child.
Tobacco use has been linked to a variety of other conditions, such as diabetes, peptic ulcers, some vision problems, and back pain.
Last updated: 4th August, 2009
Review Date: 29th January, 2008
