Successful People vs Unsuccessful People

I hope everyone keeps fighting to reach their goals and New Year Resolutions! Make 2014 your year!

Women Smokers Face Lifelong Bone Damage

Teen smokers face many immediate and long-term health risks, including osteoporosis, as studies show. Smoking, while long associated with heart disease and lung cancer, has been found to correlate with poor bone development and bone density loss.  A recent study by Lorah Dorn and her colleagues found that over a 3 year period, teen girls aged 11 to 17 who smoked had stagnant bone development in the lower vertebre and bone density loss at the hips. Other studies on adults found that smoking "increased the risk of a vertebral fracture by 13 percent and hip fracture by 31 percent in women" (Seppa 8).  

Osteoporosis can severely affect one's quality of life. Bone fractures, diminished height, stooped posture, and bone pain are typical symptoms of osteoporosis, limiting physical activities to an extent. Like a domino effect, diminished exercise can bring on weight issues, poor body composition, and lower levels of serotonin - a mood hormone. Together, these problems can prevent you from doing the things you love, and maintaining an active lifestyle. Regardless of age or gender, smoking is best avoided for your health and happiness.

Seppa, Nathan. "Smoking hurts teen girls' bones." Science News. January 12, 2013: 8. Print.

Study: Smoking Ban Cuts Heart Attacks

Do smoking bans really prevent people from smoking as much? The evidence isn't conclusive, but it's certainly pointing in that direction. 

In Olmsted County, Minnosota, heart attack rates were cut by one-third over an 8 year review which spanned from 18 months before the first smoking law to 18 months after the latest ordinance. The figures show that the annual heart attack rate dropped from 151 incidents per 100,000 people to just 100 incidents per 100,000 people. It is likely that other health risks that arise from smoking have seen reduced numbers as well. Efforts to restrict and reduce smoking and second-hand inhalation can significantly impact medical expenses and the healthiness of people. These measures represent positive moves to prevent disease and ill-health. 

Seppa, Nathan. "Smoking laws lower heart attacks." Science News. December 1, 2012: 18. Print.