Illegal Drugs, Alcohol, and Tobacco: A Comparison of Health Effects
Posted: February 4th, 2023
Compare the health effects of illegal drug use with those of alcohol and tobacco. Which generates more health problems? Why? Use subtitles/subheadings and APa references
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Illegal Drugs, Alcohol, and Tobacco: A Comparison of Health Effects
The use of drugs, alcohol, and tobacco is widespread across the world. However, the health effects of these substances vary greatly. This comparison will examine the health effects of illegal drugs, alcohol, and tobacco to determine which generates the most health problems.
Illegal Drugs
Illegal drugs have a wide range of health effects, many of which are harmful and potentially life-threatening. The effects of illegal drugs can vary depending on the type of drug and how it is used. For example, the use of cocaine can cause heart problems, while the use of marijuana can impair cognitive function. Long-term use of illegal drugs can also lead to addiction and other serious health problems.
Alcohol
Alcohol consumption can have a number of health effects, both positive and negative. In moderation, alcohol can have some protective effects against certain diseases, such as heart disease. However, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a range of health problems, including liver disease, certain types of cancer, and brain damage. Alcohol abuse is also associated with an increased risk of accidents and violence.
Tobacco
Tobacco use is a leading cause of preventable death worldwide. The health effects of tobacco use include an increased risk of heart disease, certain types of cancer, and respiratory problems. In addition, secondhand smoke from tobacco can be harmful to those around the smoker. Long-term tobacco use is also associated with a reduced quality of life and increased health care costs.
– All three substances, illegal drugs, alcohol, and tobacco, can have negative health effects. However, tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death worldwide and is associated with a wide range of health problems. Alcohol consumption, while having some potential health benefits in moderation, can also lead to a range of health problems when consumed in excessive amounts. Illegal drug use can have a wide range of harmful effects, including addiction, serious health problems, and in some cases, death.
References:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Alcohol and Public Health. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/alcohol-use.htm
Jodczyk, A. M., Kasiak, P. S., Adamczyk, N., Gębarowska, J., Sikora, Z., Gruba, G., … & Śliż, D. (2022). PaLS Study: Tobacco, alcohol and drugs usage among Polish University students in the context of stress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(3), 1261.
Llorent-Bedmar, V., Torres-Zaragoza, L., & Vidigal-Alfaya, S. (2023). Legal and Illegal Drug Consumption among Students at the University of Seville (Spain). Education Sciences, 13(1), 55.
National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2021). The Health Effects of Drug Misuse. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/health-effects-drug-misuse.
Staiger, P. K., O’Donnell, R., Liknaitzky, P., Bush, R., & Milward, J. (2020). Mobile apps to reduce tobacco, alcohol, and illicit drug use: systematic review of the first decade. Journal of medical Internet research, 22(11), e17156.
World Health Organization. (2020). Tobacco. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/tobacco