Smoking shortens lives by 15 years

In an international study on the mortality rates of smokers, the New Zealand Medical Association (NZMA) has revealed that people who smoke face premature death with an average of 15 life years lost. Highlighting the suffering of loved ones, Association Acting Chairman Paul Ockelford said, “What is often forgotten is the impact these deaths have on the people left behind. If you continue to smoke, your grandchildren might never get to know you, and you'll miss seeing them grow up... The best thing you can do for you and your family is quit smoking.” Chairman Ockelford also observed that there are many options available to help people stop the habit, such as inexpensive nicotine replacement therapy.

Our gratitude, Chairman Ockelford, New Zealand Medical Association and all involved in this important study, for helping the public understand the detrimental costs of tobacco use. With Heaven’s grace, may this harmful substance soon be a thing of the past, for the benefit of families worldwide.

Reference
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2009-06/27/content_11610674.htm

Alcohol a lethal substance globally

Researchers at the University of Toronto in Canada have found that alcohol is responsible for one in 25 deaths internationally, one in 10 deaths in Europe, and one in seven deaths in the former Soviet Union countries.

Although moderate intake is often touted as an effective protection against cardiovascular disease, the researchers also noted that these so-called benefits were far outweighed by the significantly greater risk of disease associated with alcohol consumption, including mouth and throat cancer, colorectal cancer, breast cancer, depression and stroke.

Professor Ian Gilmore, president of Britain’s Royal College of Physicians, stated, “This study is a global wake-up call. We need an international framework convention for alcohol control, similar to that on tobacco, as soon as possible, to put into practice the evidence-based measures needed to reduce alcohol-related harm.

These include increasing the price of alcohol, reducing its availability and banning advertising, and the action needs to start now."

Our grateful thanks, University of Toronto scientists and Professor Gilmore for this comprehensive study and compelling call to action. We look forward to seeing successful policies of governments worldwide that bring the freedom of alcohol-free lives to societies everywhere.

Reference
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8118475.stm