All articles tagged with #tobacco
A large study in India found that even light alcohol consumption, especially locally brewed drinks combined with chewing tobacco, significantly increases the risk of mouth cancer, with no safe level of alcohol identified.
A study using PET scans found that co-using cannabis and tobacco alters brain chemistry by increasing FAAH enzyme levels, which reduces the activity of the 'bliss molecule' anandamide, potentially explaining higher depression, anxiety, and addiction challenges in users of both substances. This research could guide new treatments for cannabis use disorder, especially among tobacco co-users.
A small preliminary study suggests that using tobacco with cannabis causes unique brain chemistry changes, particularly involving the enzyme FAAH, which may explain worse addiction and mental health outcomes in co-users compared to those who use only one substance. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and understand the mechanisms involved.
A study shows that co-using cannabis and tobacco increases FAAH enzyme levels in the brain, reducing the 'bliss molecule' anandamide, which may explain higher anxiety, depression, and difficulty quitting among co-users. This discovery offers a potential target for developing treatments for cannabis use disorder, especially in those who also use tobacco.
The article highlights five ultra-high-yield dividend stocks to consider for safe income in 2025 and beyond, including Realty Income, Altria Group, British American Tobacco, Verizon Communications, and Enbridge, emphasizing their strong dividend track records and stability despite industry challenges.
Experts warn that tobacco use, especially smoking, significantly disrupts sleep by acting as a stimulant due to nicotine, leading to difficulties falling asleep and poorer sleep quality. Quitting tobacco can improve sleep over time, typically within 3 to 4 weeks, despite initial withdrawal challenges.
Archaeologists from the University of Leicester have discovered that tobacco leaves chemical traces in human bones, persisting for centuries, which provides new insights into historical tobacco use and its long-term health effects. This study, published in Science Advances, analyzed skeletal remains from pre- and post-tobacco eras, revealing that tobacco consumption was more widespread across different demographics than previously thought. The findings challenge traditional reliance on dental evidence for identifying ancient tobacco use and have implications for modern health research and tobacco control efforts.
The Commonwealth Cancer Association in the CNMI is raising awareness for Oral Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the prevalence of oral cancer due to betel nut and tobacco use. Survivor Melvin Manahane emphasized the need to address the cultural tradition of chewing betel nut and tobacco, which contributes to addiction and death. Dr. Angelica Sabino stressed the economic, social, and physical impact of oral cancer on the community, calling for aggressive action to decrease its prevalence through education, prevention, and mental health support. The CCA is committed to raising awareness and education about all types of cancer, with a focus on promoting healthy habits and regular screenings. Governor Arnold I. Palacios and Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang urged citizens to unite in the battle against oral cancer, emphasizing the importance of breaking harmful habits and prioritizing regular screenings.
A study published in the journal Nicotine and Tobacco Research reveals a fivefold increase in the number of people using non-cigarette tobacco products such as pipes, shisha, and cigars in the UK over the past decade, particularly among young adults. Experts warn that this trend could lead to a rise in smoking-related cancers, as these forms of smoking can be more harmful than cigarettes. The British Heart Foundation notes that smoking a shisha pipe for 20-80 minutes can result in inhaling the same amount of smoke as over 100 cigarettes. Cancer Research UK emphasizes the need for government legislation to include all tobacco products in age-of-sale restrictions, while calling for increased support for smoking cessation services to help individuals quit.
In the current economic climate, investors may want to focus on high-yield dividend stocks for steady income. British American Tobacco offers a 9.7% dividend yield despite concerns about the future of its cigarette business. Annaly Capital Management, a real estate investment trust, presents a 13.5% yield and potential for growth as interest rates normalize. Realty Income, another REIT, provides a 5.7% yield with a track record of consistent dividend payments and resilient tenants, making it a relatively low-risk option for investors seeking safe income in 2024.
Altria's stock has declined over the past five years, facing challenges such as declining cigarette shipments and market share losses. Despite a high dividend yield and low forward earnings multiple, the company's existential challenges and lack of meaningful revenue growth suggest it may not be a good investment. Investors are advised to consider higher-growth tobacco stocks like Philip Morris International or other blue-chip dividend stocks instead.
The World Health Organization's cancer agency predicts a 77% increase in new cancer cases by 2050, citing factors such as tobacco, alcohol, obesity, and air pollution. The most-developed countries are expected to see the greatest increases in case numbers, while countries with lower Human Development Index levels will experience the greatest proportional increase. The impact of this rise will disproportionately affect countries with fewer resources to manage their cancer burdens.
The UK's inflation rate unexpectedly rose to 4% in December, driven by increased alcohol and tobacco prices, marking the first increase since February 2023. The Bank of England faces challenges as it grapples with whether and how sharply to cut interest rates in 2024, amid slowing pay growth and a decline in job vacancies. Finance Minister Jeremy Hunt emphasized the need to stick to the current plan to control borrowing and boost growth with competitive tax levels.
The market for betel nut consumption, an addictive nut regarded as the world's fourth most widely-used psychoactive substance, continues to boom despite its classification as a carcinogen twenty years ago. With over 600 million regular chewers globally, the nut's production has more than doubled in the last two decades. However, studies have shown a clear connection between betel nut consumption and oral cancer, particularly in countries where it is widely consumed. The high rates of oral cancer in Papua New Guinea, where betel nut chewing is prevalent, highlight the urgent need for regulation and awareness of the health risks associated with this habit.
While smoking rates have decreased in every age group in the United States, a new study shows that smoking habits among adults over 65 have actually increased. This generational divide can be attributed to factors such as older adults being exposed to smoking before public health interventions, limited access to smoking-cessation programs and tools, and targeted advertising by tobacco companies. Loneliness among older adults has also been associated with increased smoking. Efforts are being made to address this issue, including new smoking cessation initiatives that focus on equity and expanding access to treatment. On a positive note, smoking rates among adolescents have dramatically decreased in recent years.