Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States, claiming countless lives every year. It’s a heartbreaking reality, but it’s also a call to action. By quitting smoking, you’re not just adding years to your life—you’re reclaiming your health, your freedom, and your future. Every cigarette you choose not to smoke is a step toward a healthier, stronger you. And by encouraging others to quit as well, you’re helping to save lives and create a ripple effect of positive change. Let’s break free from the grip of smoking and build a brighter, healthier future together.
Facts
- Cigarette smoking causes more than 480,000 deaths each year in the United States. This is nearly one in five deaths.
- Smoking causes more deaths each year than the following causes combined:
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
- Illegal drug use
- Alcohol use
- Motor vehicle injuries
- Firearm-related incidents
- More than 10 times as many U.S. citizens have died prematurely from cigarette smoking than have died in all the wars fought by the United States.
- Smoking causes about 90% (or 9 out of 10) of all lung cancer deaths. More women die from lung cancer each year than from breast cancer.
- Smoking causes about 80% (or 8 out of 10) of all deaths from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Cigarette smoking increases risk for death from all causes in men and women.
- The risk of dying from cigarette smoking has increased over the last 50 years in the U.S.
Quitting smoking is one of the most powerful choices you can make for your health and your future. It’s not just about adding years to your life—it’s about improving the quality of those years. As you take this journey, remember that your decision can inspire others to follow suit, creating a wave of change that benefits everyone. Together, we can break the cycle of smoking, support each other in quitting, and build a healthier, smoke-free future. Your choice today can save lives tomorrow.
**By increasing the reach and accessibility of smoking cessation messages, the Tips® campaign addresses health disparities and aims to promote health equity.**
