There are many reasons why homeless people in society smoke Vape equipment. Most of the victims start using tobacco products before becoming homeless. Those who become homeless while addicted to tobacco products find it hard to stop the smoking habit.
Some of the factors that may cause continued smoking among the homeless include psychological or emotional challenges for being homeless and stress. Chances are even higher for those who have lost their livelihood and homes unexpectedly. Vaping is also a common habit among the homeless.
The tobacco industry has been in the limelight for targeting homeless Americans. Some companies have been using marketing strategies such as offering free blankets and cigarette samples to the homeless. Besides, they have been giving financial aid to the shelters of homeless people. It can be said that these practices have hindered the war against smoking among the homeless in the community.
Medical Challenges for Homeless Smokers
The homeless are more likely to experience health complications unlike the rest of the population. They may not access medical services due to a lack of medical insurance. It may thus be very difficult to discover conditions such as lung diseases at an earlier stage. This only worsens the situation since homeless people are always exposed to an unhealthy environment.
Homeless Smoking Statistics
Smoking cases in the USA have been reported to be decreasing in the recent past. However, statistics indicate that more than two million people in the homeless community nationwide continue to smoke. Most people believe that homeless people choose to smoke and never plan or think of stoping it.
70% of the homeless people who have been interviewed say that they want to have a better feeling and hope to quit smoking at some point. 26% have been in the past six months admitted to a hospital.
Effects of Smoking
Tobacco has many harmful chemicals that may have serious health effects on the body.
Low tobacco intake may have the following effects:
- Mild euphoria
- Loss of appetite
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- High blood pressure
- High tobacco consumption can cause:
- Fainting
- Heart attack
- Coma
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
Why Smoking is One of the Main Causes of Death Among Homeless People
It is difficult for the homeless to fight tobacco addiction because of improper health care. Many succumb to diseases related to smoking due to a lack of medication. Some of the common diseases that may cause death include:
- Acute myeloid leukemia
- Obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD)
- Cancer of the mouth, liver, throat, and kidney
- Lung and larynx cancer
Can the Homeless Quit Smoking
It is not easy for any smoker to quit the use of tobacco once he or she is addicted to it. However, with a lot of support, a pleasant environment, and determination, homeless people can quit smoking.
Homeless Smokers Support
The number of homeless people who smoke a cigarette is very high. As such, there is a need for every individual to help in fighting this addiction through various ways such as creating awareness in the community.
