F for Tobacco Prevention

According to the American Lung Association from CBS News, many states did not pass 2012 state reports on tobacco control policies. Although there has been a decline in youth and adult smoking rates, the declining rate is not continuous and has been stalled at times. To make matters worse, tobacco companies are even selling smoke-free dissolvable products that contain nicotine in some states to entice customers. The FDA is currently investigating these products and may take action soon.

UC's Tobacco Free

The University of California will be implementing a ban on smoking and chewing of tobacco on all UC campuses by 2014. President Mark Yudof announced the ban to campus chancellors this week. According to the SFGate, the main goal is to reduce exposure to secondhand smoke.  The sales of tobacco and advertisements for the products on campus will also be banned in buildings owned or rented by the University of California. Currently, 8 percent of UC students and 10 percent of employees smoke.

Hookah

Despite what many may think, hookah also poses a major health hazard to users. Hookah is a type of water pipe filled with flavored tobacco. The tobacco is first heated up by charcoal and then cooled by water found at the base of the pipes. Individuals using hookah inhale the cooled tobacco fumes that contain carbon monoxide. According to health officials, carbon monoxide makes it more difficult for the body to take up oxygen for vital body functions. Individuals experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning may have flu-like symptoms such as nausea and fatigue. In extreme cases, carbon monoxide poisoning can lead to coma or death.