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Despite the many health hazards of smoking, some people still partake in it for recreational reasons, like personal stress relief. While nicotine does induce a sense of relaxation, this is quite fleeting and it's not hard to get addicted in a relatively short time period.

Habitual smoking significantly increases an individual's risk of cancer, diabetes, breathing complications, dental problems, and even difficulties with blood circulation and the chronic respiratory system. Many people spend years trying to break their smoking addictions. Though at the end of the day, the best protection comes in the form of prevention.

Things may be looking up, however, as a recent Gallup survey shows that today's cigarette smoking rate is lower than it's been in the past 80 years.

More adults are walking away from smoking

Currently, only 11% of American adults told the pollster they've had a smoke within the past seven days.

Interestingly enough, young people are the leading demographic that's distancing from smoking. Gallup likewise discovered a 6% average of people under 30 years old who've used cigarettes over the past three years.

Across the board, most folks acknowledge the risks and harms that come along with nicotine. Almost eight in ten Americans described cigarette smoking as a "very harmful" habit, while 57% shared the same outlook on e-cigarettes.

While the numbers show that fewer people worry about e-cigarettes than cigarettes, the former shouldn't be underestimated. E-cigarettes still contain noxious substances like formaldehyde, acrolein, and acetaldehyde. Regular ingestion of these chemicals places individuals at risk of suffering from heart disease, lung disease, and other complications.

How to kick a smoking habit for good

Addiction quite literally rewires the brain, making it harder for people to break free of bad habits. Regardless, this doesn't mean all is lost.

If you're looking to stop smoking, improve your health, and enjoy a better life, consider the following steps to break your addiction:

• Ask your doctor about nicotine replacement therapy
• Avoid being around people or environments that encourage or engage in smoking
• Try chewing on snacks or sugarless gum
• Enroll in an anti-smoking program
• Get into physical activity (running, jogging, squatting, etc.)
• Sign up for counseling or therapy