Quitting can be positive
Impacts of smoking and tobacco

The percentage of adults that smoke is at an all-time low, however, millions of Americans are still regular tobacco users. Although quitting is incredibly challenging, it is the most effective way to help prevent developing tobacco-related diseases.

Impacts of smoking and tobacco on physical health

Smoking

According to a Report of the Surgeon General, smoking is the leading cause of preventable disease, disability and death in the U.S. It can cause cancer, heart disease, stroke, lung diseases, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Smoking can also increase the risk of tuberculosis, certain eye diseases, and problems of the immune system, including rheumatoid arthritis.

Vaping devices

Although vapes are relatively new products, and the long-term effects are not yet known, we do know that nicotine can harm adolescent brain development. And the dangerous chemicals which vapes produce can lead to lung injury, COPD and may cause asthma and lung cancer.

Chewing tobacco

Smokeless tobacco products aren't linked to lung cancer like their inhaled counterparts, but there are other conditions users are at risk of developing. These products can contain carcinogens and may cause gum disease, tooth decay, tooth loss, and can lead to several types of cancer including mouth, esophageal, and pancreatic.

How does it impact the workplace and home?

The effects of tobacco and smoking don't clock out. It can impact users, their coworkers, and loved ones.

Not only is the user harmed, but exposure to secondhand smoke can cause coronary heart disease, stroke, lung cancer, and other diseases.

At work

Smoking and tobacco products can drive up costs for employers by increasing health care needs and absenteeism, whilst reducing workplace productivity, performance, morale, and safety.

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/workplacehealthpromotion/health-strategies/tobacco-use/index.html

At home

In addition to exposing others to secondhand smoke and increased health care costs, thirdhand smoke is also harmful.

Thirdhand smoke is caused by pollutants from smoking settling indoors onto carpets, furniture, walls, ceilings, bedding, toys, or other household items. People are exposed when they touch contaminated surfaces or breathe in gases that thirdhand smoke may release.

Smoking also increases the risk of accidental fires. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, in 2021 there were 7,800 fires, 275 deaths, 750 injuries, and $361,500,000 in dollar loss due to fires caused by smoking.

How quitting enhances your life

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, quitting smoking:

• Improves overall health and quality of life.
• Reduces the risk of premature death and may add as much as 10 years to life expectancy.
• Decreases the risk for health conditions such as, poor reproductive health outcomes, cardiovascular diseases, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cancer.
• Benefits people already diagnosed with coronary heart disease or COPD.
• Reduces the financial burden on people who smoke, health care systems, and society.

Tips to help create a smoke-free workplace

• Intervention and cessation program. The CDC has resources available to help employers address tobacco use in the workplace and protect public health.
• Offer incentives for quitting or staying tobacco-free. Many companies offer discounts on health care coverage for choosing a smoke and tobacco-free lifestyle.
• Implement workplace smoke-free policies. These can help eliminate exposure to secondhand smoke by prohibiting smoking indoors and in designated public areas.

How Allstate Benefits can help

When employers provide benefits that help their employees, everyone wins. Offering employees health coverage can help make health care more accessible. Plan members will be more likely to use their benefits and seek treatment.

Virtual Talk Therapy

Studies have shown that tobacco use is more prevalent in individuals diagnosed with mental health disorders.

In addition to coverage for in-office visits, employers also have the option to add telemedicine to their group health plans through Walmart Health Virtual Care. Licensed therapists can help with a wide range of mental and emotional health needs. Members receive ongoing support, on their schedule, from the comfort of their home via phone and/or video visits in as little as 48 hours, at little cost. Copays range from $0 - $38. Talk Therapy is available for adults ages 18 and older and children and teens ages 10-17.

Wellness program

Setting goals and keeping a regular fitness routine can improve overall health. Adding a wellness program can help keep employees healthier, while enhancing and protecting their lives. Vitality has resources available to help members quit and stay tobacco and smoke-free.

Allstate partners with Vitality to give you the option to offer a wellness program to your members.

Reach out to your Allstate Benefits — Group Health sales consultant today.

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