Unit 8
Tobacco and Caffeine

During the past 50 years, tobacco has gone from a substance physicians recommended for reducing stress to a substance that is now commonly restricted. Although these changes have helped reduce the number of smokers, many people still start smoking.

It is difficult to exaggerate the tremendous harm caused by tobacco. Roughly one smoker in two eventually dies prematurely as a result of smoking. It is essential, therefore, for all health studies courses to closely examine the problems caused by tobacco.

In this unit, we will also discuss another psychoactive substance, consumed daily by many people: caffeine.

Objectives

After completing this unit, you should be able to

1. describe the different ways in which tobacco is sold.
2. discuss the social issues of tobacco use, including advertising and medical costs.
3. identify some of the major chemicals found in cigarettes, and describe how major toxic substances in tobacco affect the body.
4. outline the health hazards, including passive smoking, that stem from smoking tobacco and related products.
5. identify and discuss strategies people use to quit smoking.
6. identify the policies and programs that influence Canadians’ use of tobacco.
7. compare the benefits and risks associated with caffeine and summarize the health consequences of long-term caffeine use.