Have you ever heard of a “pack year”? Unless you have smoked cigarettes or have known someone who frequently used them, the chances are slim that you have. Simply put, a “pack year” is a simple term that refers to how many cigarettes people consume over a given time period. Based on guidelines, a definitive “pack year” would constitute about 20 cigarettes per day over the course of one year. (Keep in mind that one pack contains 20 sticks, meaning that a person would have to consume one pack every single day for 12 months straight.) For example, if a man were to smoke 40 cigarettes for about 42 years, that number would equal 84 pack years. Obviously, filling your day with cigarettes (chain smoking) can wreak havoc on your mind and body. Let’s take a closer look and find out why filling a pack year is so deadly.
Considering Loose Tobacco
Although pack years are used to describe the use of manufactured cigarettes, we also have to consider if loose tobacco (used for pipes or rolled cigarettes) can also fall into this category. Unfortunately, according to reports, physicians cannot provide an accurate count for a “pack year” under these circumstances, so an additional measurement was created. According to this new fact, ½ ounce of loose tobacco is equivalent to 20 commercially packaged cigarettes. (Let’s also not forget that people who use loose tobacco can face more severe health risks, given the fact that they don’t use filters.)
What’s the Point?
Ultimately, the argument boils down to the critical health problems associated with the consumption of tobacco products. For example, doctors can combine pack years with additional information (patient age, smoking history) to determine if this man or woman should be screened for lung cancer. Based on data, a patient has much better options if they have only smoked for 10 years, in contrast to a 40-year hardcore smoker. Additionally, doctors can use this data to determine if a person is at risk for cardiovascular problems or COPD.
Seeking Treatment for Cigarette Use
Despite what people may tell you, cigarettes and any tobacco products are completely hazardous to your health. Huge quantities of dangerous chemicals and toxins can destroy your lungs, heart, brain, and much more and leave you feeling tired and hopeless. The good news is that, despite these dangerous, you can easily take back control of your life.
If you, a friend, or loved one is suffering from nicotine addiction, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process detox and withdrawal and guide you through each step of the rehabilitation process to help you separate yourself from these substances. The time to take back control of your life is now.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your attachment to tobacco products.
