1

Table of Contents

Chapters Pages

Title page (Problem Statement)2

Acknowledgement 3

Chapter 1Introduction………………………………………………….. 4-11

Chapter 2Literature Review ……………………………... …………… 12-16

Chapter 3 Research Design……………………………………………... 17-18

Data collection sources………………………………………. 19-22

Chapter 4 Presentation of findings……………………………………… 23-31

Chapter 5Interpretation of findings…………………………………….. 32-35

Chapter 6

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Discussion of findings……………………………………….. 36-38

Conclusion…………………………………………………… 39 Limitation……………………………………………………. 40 Recommendation……………………………………………. 41 Reference……………………………………………………. 42-43 Appendix…………………………………………………….. 44

Appendix A (Cover letter)…………………………………… 45Appendix B (Sample questionnaire)…………………………. 46-49

Problem Statement

The impact of cigarette smoking on the

health of individuals 16 - 45 years of

age in Mount Salem, St James.

3

Acknowledgement

I must express gratitude to the following persons for their

valuable contribution towards the completion of this project.

First, I would like to say thanks to God for giving me the

strength, knowledge and understanding in putting this internal

assessment together. Secondly, thanks to my peers and family for

their helping hand and support when and where needed most. Also

special thanks to the staff of the Ivy Townsend Library and also

the Montego Bay Parish Library for providing me with the

4

necessary primary and secondary sources for this project. This

project would not be successful without your tremendous help.

Thank you all!

Background

In ancient days there was never a clear distinction between

drugs and medicines. Drugs can be used for medicinal purposes

5

which have a positive impact on the human body. On the other

hand, there are some drugs that carry a negative nuance because

of their unhealthy and harmful effects. Some of these include:

Cocaine, Heroin, Amphetamines, Marijuana, LSD, Ecstasy, Alcohol

among many others. Nevertheless, the main focus of this research

paper is on the specific drug, cigarette. A cigarette contains

over 4,000 chemicals including 43 unknown cancer causing

compounds and 400 other toxins. These include nicotine, tar and

carbon monoxide just to name a few. Nicotine makes up 93% of all

the alkaloids contained in the smoke of cigarettes. When smoked

it creates a psychological and physical dependence. As a result

many teenagers as well as adults in Mount Salem are so addicted.

Mount Salem is located in the parish of St. James in

Jamaica. It consists of various communities that practice

different cultural norms. Some areas within Mount Salem are quite

peaceful while there exist some amount of disturbance in others.

In Mount Salem there are many teenagers who engage in cigarette

smoking from a tender age. Adult men and women also smoke

cigarette on a daily basis not knowing the true effect (positive

or negative) that this drug has on their bodies. This is mainly

6

because most of them are uneducated. This paper will thus, show

the effects of cigarette smoking on the health of individuals 16

– 45 years of age in Mount Salem, St. James.

Rationale

Many individuals especially teens seem to be so attracted to

a short tightly rolled cylinder of tobacco, wrapped in thin paper

and often having a filter tip. They light a maximum of five and

at times an entire pack of cigarette per day. Instead of doing

something constructive with their time, from as early in the

morning they sit with friends on the street corner for hours

smoking. A cigarette is most often a substitute for breakfast in

the mornings and for supper at nights. This activity is so

perceptible in today’s society which leaves many to wonder what

is it that attracts them so much to this activity, smoking?

“Cigarette smoking is bad for health.” This is a phrase many

individuals hear on a daily basis or have come in contact with at

7

some point in their lives yet, individuals especially teenagers

and adult men are reluctant to quit the habit which later becomes

an addiction.

Purpose

The main purpose of this research paper is to highlight the

impacts of cigarette smoking on the human body. It is also aimed

at making individuals more aware of this particular drug they are

consuming with the hope that they will develop the urge to

eventually quit smoking. This paper also seeks to add to previous

researches done on this particular topic.

Statement of the Problem

8

Stress is a major factor that affects persons in society

today. Adult men and women who are unable to obtain a job

normally occupy their time by engaging in illegal activities.

Those who are law abiding citizens engross themselves in

conversations at a bar, casino etc. while they drink or smoke.

Furthermore, there are also many teenagers 16 and over who do not

attend school regularly because of financial difficulties or

whether by choice. As a result they eventually display delinquent

behavior in society, stealing, shooting, drinking, smoking etc.

Most of these individuals are often from a very poor background

and so they easily renounce life rather than strive for success.

They also gravitate to person of that caliber who also prefers to

hang out on the streets and smoke.

At every street corner in Mount Salem there are young boys

and girls as well as men and women who smoke cigarette on a daily

basis because they see smoking as the ultimate solution to their

problems. Many attempts have been made to get these people off

the streets such as the development of community centers, rehab

centers, counseling etc. in order for them to stop smoking.

However, these have failed because of a lack of finance and also

9

cooperation. They prefer to stay on the streets and smoke not

knowing the damage they are causing to their bodies. Ironically,

they believe that the cigarette is saving them from their

obstacles or problems in their lives. Not having a job or not

being able to go to school is a problem most definitely.

Therefore, the research seeks to ascertain the extent of the

impact which their most favoured solution has on their lives.

Research Questions

1. What age groups mostly indulge in cigarette smoking?

2. What are the symptoms of cigarette smoking?

3. What major problems result from smoking?

4. Which sex group is more susceptible to the effects of

cigarette smoking?

10

Hypothesis

The smoking of cigarettes has various negative implications

on individuals as well as the society. If steps are not taken to

eradicate this practice of smoking in society and to educate

these persons of the damage smoking can cause to their bodies

then in a few years the death rate will increase as a result of

persons dying from various cancers and other illnesses.

11

Delimitation

This research paper will only be subjected to persons living

in the vicinity of Mount Salem, 16 – 45 years of age who smoke

cigarette and will only focus on the health of the individual. No

one under 16 will be involved in the content of this research as

they would be considered a minor. Also, though the research topic

is centered in Mount Salem not all the communities in the area

will be studied.

Definition of key terms

12

Addiction - a state of physiological or psychological

dependence on a potentially harmful drug.

Adult – a fully mature person who has reached the age of

legal majority, usually 18.

Aneurysms - bulge in artery: a fluid-filled sac in the wall

of an artery that can weaken the wall.

Cigarette – a short tightly rolled cylinder of tobacco,

wrapped in thin paper and often having a filter tip, for

smoking.

Drug - any substance I the form of food, drinks, capsule,

smoke, injection or smell which, taken into the body through

the mouth, nose or skin upsets the biochemical system of the

body, and especially the nervous system.

Emphysema - a chronic medical disorder of the lungs in

which the air sacs are dilated or enlarged and lack

flexibility, so that breathing is impaired and infection

sometimes occurs

Nicotine – a toxic oily liquid found in tobacco.

13

Phlegm - the thick mucus secreted by the walls of the

respiratory passages, especially during a cold.

Prefrontal cortex - this is the area of the brain that

guides “executive functions” like decision-making.

Smoking – to inhale and exhale the smoke of burning

tobacco or a drug, or smoke from a cigarette, cigar, or

pipe.

Teenagers – a young person between the ages of 13 and 19.

14

Educational value of study

At the end of this research paper the writer aims to educate

more teenagers as well as adults on the effects of cigarette

smoking on their bodies. Hence, this information given will be

quite beneficial to them as it will:

Allow them to inform others persons about the dangers of

smoking cigarette.

Influence these individuals to stop smoking the particular

drug.

15

Influence them to visit their doctor on a regular basis so

as to check if they are developing any type of cancer caused

by smoking.

It will also inspire them to be more socially aware of their

surroundings in terms of not yielding to peer pressure.

It will also provide them with more details on cigarette

smoking.

It will also assists various health organizations such as

The Jamaica Coalition of Tobacco Control, The Heart

Foundation of Jamaica, the National Council on Drug Abuse

among others to be more aware of the other dangers of

smoking that exist and thus do more to help individuals who

smoke.

The Ministry of Education may be informed extensively about

the dangers of cigarette smoking thus do more to educate the

young minds in schools, such as having Guidance Counseling

sessions more often in schools etc.

16

Literature Review

This section of the research consists of secondary

information obtained from newspaper articles, the internet and

books. Its main focus is to give background details on cigarette

smoking in relation to the research questions. The areas that

will be covered include the different age groups that mostly

engage in cigarette smoking, and the symptoms of cigarette

smoking. Other areas of focus include the major problems that

result from smoking, the age group in which the impacts of

cigarette smoking is most apparent and also the sex group that is

more engrossed in cigarette smoking.

Teenagers and cigarette smoking

“Tobacco smoking is an addiction for young and older people alike

and needs to be recognized as such. What may have started as a

social habit soon turns into an addiction. When a habit becomes

an addiction, choice is usually not an option.” (Chen,2011).

Cigarette smoking is practiced by many teenagers from as early as

age 9. It can be observed that they become more vulnerable with

age. Data from the Jamaica Health and Lifestyle Survey (2008)

show that 40% of smokers initiate the habit by the age of 16.

With similar results, The National Council on Drug Abuse Global

Youth Tobacco Survey (2010) shows that 17.8% of young people 13-

17

15 years old are current users of cigarette – an increase from

15.4% in 2006. Additionally, 25.3% of those who ever smoked first

smoked cigarettes before the age of 10 years (Chen,2011). It is

observed in Mount Salem that a lot of young boys and girls begin

smoking from as early as age 14 also. According to Tomeo et al.,

(1999), as cited in Galvez (2005), in boys and girls from 9 to 14

years of age, the desire to smoke is related to their concern

about controlling their weight. Many teenagers especially girls

develop a low self esteem and often become depressed when they

start to put on weight. As a way of dealing with the depression

they resort to smoking. This is because smoking relaxes the

nerves.

Furthermore, The Surgeon General’s Report on tobacco use among

young people concluded that “tobacco use in adolescence is

associated with a range of health-compromising behaviors,

including being involved in fights, carrying weapons to school,

engaging in higher risk sexual behavior, and using alcohol and

other drugs.” (The Institute for Youth Development: Tobacco and

Youth, 1998.) There is evidence of violent activities among

students at one prominent school in the area known as Mount Salem

Primary and Junior High School. There have been many cases of

students inflicting wounds upon each other using knives. Also

there have been instances where students have been suspended

after being caught smoking cigarettes on the school compound. One

may assume that their behavior may be as a result of smoking.

However, Robert Levy and Rosalind Marimont deny this claim and

18

argued that the scientific evidence demonstrating that tobacco

use is harmful to smokers is disputable. Levy and Marimont stated

that smoking has been demonized unfairly. They further argue that

cigarette smoking is not illegal and does not cause intoxication,

violent behavior, or unemployment. (Goldberg, 2008, p.191.)

Adults and cigarette smoking

Many adults begin smoking from the age of 16 or younger and

continue this practice throughout adulthood. Adult smokers are

more prone to the impacts of smoking than teenagers. Adult

smokers especially between the ages of 45 – 70 are much more

susceptible to cardiovascular diseases. These recent findings

support and expand upon others such as Goldberg (2008) who states

that,

the relationship between cigarette smoking and

cardiovascular disease, including heart attack, stroke, sudden death,

peripheral vascular disease, and aortic aneurysm is well documented.

Even as few as one to four cigarettes daily can increase the risk of

fatal coronary heart disease. Cigarettes have also been shown to

reduce blood flow in adults 45 years and over and the level of high-

density lipoprotein cholesterol. (p. 191).

Cigarette smoking is responsible for about 30% of deaths among

people between ages 35 and 69, making it the single most

prominent cause of premature death in the developed world. Adult

smokers also assert that smoking cigarettes enables them to

concentrate better and that abstaining from smoking impairs their

19

concentration. (Goldberg, 2008). This is also in accordance

with many adult smokers in Mount Salem who engage in the habit.

Because of age many experience nerve problems, especially males

over the age of 65. As a result they smoke because they claim

that it helps to “calm their nerves”. Based on data collected

from 1995 to 1999, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

(CDC) estimated that adult male smokers lost an average of 13.2

years of life and female smokers lost 14.5 years of life because

of smoking. (Cigarette Smoking, 2011). Smoking causes an

estimated 90% of all deaths in men and 80% of all lung cancer.

Smoking is responsible for almost 9 out of 10 lung cancer deaths

in adults. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in

both men and women, and is one of the hardest cancers to treat.

Lung cancer is a disease that can often be prevented.

Symptoms of cigarette smoking

Charles Patrick Davis, MD, PhD stated that signs and symptoms of

cigarette smoking are frequently obvious even to a causal

observer. Besides the confirmatory evidence (a person actually

smoking a cigarette in public view), nicotine-stained fingers and

teeth, the characteristic smell of smoke impregnated clothing and

home items, the chronic "smokers cough," the gravelly voice, and

often the visible pack of cigarettes and lighter in a person's

pocket or purse are signs and symptoms that a person smokes.

Signs and symptoms of tobacco related diseases often depend on

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the specific illnesses they cause. (Cigarette Smoking Symptoms,

2011)

Some major symptoms of cigarette smoking include: difficulty

or pain on swallowing, or persistent hoarseness and this may

signal a cancer in the mouth or larynx. Increased heart rate is

also a symptom that results. Smokers’ hearts have to work harder

than non-smokers and a heart that is working harder can tire-out

faster which may result in early heart attack and stroke. Other

symptoms of the impact of cigarette smoking on individuals 16 -

45 years of age and beyond consist of shortness of breath,

unexpected weight loss and persistent cough. Dr Jen Doe and Dr DeSanto believes that a smoker who is not coughing is probably

not doing an effective job of clearing his/her lungs of the

harmful irritants found in tobacco smoke as a persistent cough is

their only defense against the harmful products. Coughing up

blood, frequent colds and upper respiratory infections, change

in exercise capacity, sudden weakness on one side of the face or

body; or difficulty speaking, leg pain while walking that goes

away when you rest, persistent abdominal pain, blood in the

urine among others are regular symptoms of cigarette smoking. Many of these symptoms are evident among smokers in Chricton

Drive and Campbell Lane in Mount Salem. Many adult smokers seen

in the area are often coughing or hoarse. This is especially

prevalent among the males over age 45. Contrary to the popular

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belief that smoking relieves stress, Dr Jen Doe and Dr DeSanto

believes it does not. Studies have shown that on average, smokers

have higher levels of stress than non-smokers. The feelings of

relaxation that non-smokers experience while they are smoking are

actually a return to the normal unstressed state that non-smokers

experience all of the time. Hence, increase stress is also a

symptom of cigarette smoking. (Desanto, Doe, 2009)

Major problems of cigarette smoking

As it relates to women, using tobacco can damage a woman’s

reproductive health and hurt babies. Tobacco use is linked with

reduced fertility and a higher risk of miscarriage, early

delivery (premature birth), and stillbirth. Cigarette smoking is

also a cause of low birth-weight in infants and can also be

linked to sudden infant death syndrome (SDS) too. (Cigarette

Smoking, 2011). Smoking can also cause or worsen blood flow in

the arms and legs (peripheral vascular disease or PVD.) According

to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2000

about 8.6 million people had at least one chronic disease because

they smoked or had smoked. Many diseases seen most often due to

cigarette smoking were chronic bronchitis, emphysema, aneurysms,

heart attacks, stroke and cancer. Chairman of the Jamaica

Coalition of Tobacco Control, Dr Knox Hagley, maintains that,

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Cigarette smoking also increases the complications of diabetes and

hypertension. Tobacco dependence (addiction) leads to reduced

longevity by an average of 13.2 years among male smokers and 14.5

among female smokers. (A7)

Nevertheless, some studies have found that male smokers may

be more likely to be sexually impotent (have erectile

dysfunction) than non-smokers. These problems can steal away a

person’s quality of life long before death. Smoking related

illness can limit a person’s daily life by making it harder to

breath, get around, work or play. (Cigarette Smoking, 2011.) Many

smokers in Mount Salem suffer from one or more of the problems

mentioned above. Though most their sicknesses are in the early

stage there has already been some damage that cannot be reversed.

As observed, The Cornwall Regional Hospital treats many patients

with cancer, breathing problems, colds etc on a daily basis who

are actually from the areas being studied. One may infer that

cigarette smoking is a major cause of their illnesses. On the

other hand, studies conducted by the World Health Organization

(WHO) revealed that among people, the short term health

consequences of smoking include respiratory and non respiratory

effects, addiction to nicotine, and the associated risk of other

drug use. Smoking also hurts young people’s physical fitness in

terms of both performance and endurance – even among young people

trained in competitive running. On average, someone who smokes a

pack or more of cigarettes each day live 7 years less than

average someone who never smoked. The organization (WHO) also

23

showed that teenage smokers suffer from shortness of breath

almost three times as often as teens who do not smoke, and

produce phlegm more than twice as often as teens who do not

smoke. (Tobacco Smoking Impacts Teens’ Brains, Study Shows, 2011)

Susceptibility of male or female to the effects

of cigarette smoking

Dr Inga Cecilie Soerheim, M.D. and her colleagues from Channing

Laboratory, Bringham and Women’s Hospital and University of

Bergen, Norway indicate that women may be more vulnerable to the

effects of smoking than men. Based on their studies women had

more severe disease and greater impairment of lung function than

men. “This means that female smokers in our study experienced

reduced lung function at a lower level of smoking exposure and at

an earlier age than men,” said Dr. Soerheim. Some possible

explanations to this is that “Women have smaller airways;

therefore each cigarette may do more harm.” (Soerheim,2011).

These findings expand and support those of Elena Tremoli,

Professor of Pharmacology at the University of Milan, Italy, and

her team. A number of males and females were examined using

ultrasound technology to assess the presence of wall thickening

and plaques in the carotids, the arteries that bring blood to the

brain. The research shows that the amount of tobacco exposure

during the entire life significantly correlates with the

thickness of carotid arterial walls (an index of atherosclerosis)

in both genders. However, the impact is more than doubled in

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women than in men. Similarly, the effect of the number of

cigarettes smoked per day on the progression of the disease over

time is more than five-fold in women than in men (Cigarette

Smoking Causes More Arterial Damage in Women than in Men, Study

Finds, 2011). Based on the results of both studies it is proven

that women are indeed more susceptible to the effects of

cigarette smoking than men.

Research Design

The research methodology that was used in this study is

quantitative research. This method saves the researcher time and

money. It also collects standard data and it provides more

objective data, since the researcher may not have to interact

with the respondents.

The research design that was employed in this study is social

surveys. Validity is maintained since the data is collected from

a large cross section of the population. Another reason for this

choice is that statistical techniques can be used to analyse the

data, thus saving the researcher time. With social surveys the

research is easily replicated.

The type of survey that will be used is factual survey which is

used to collect descriptive information.

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Some of the ethical guidelines that were observed in this study

included: informed consent, privacy and confidentiality.

Permission was first obtained from the subjects before the

questionnaire was administered. The respondents were also assured

that their participation in this research is based on willingness

and that their response will be held in confidence. All

respondents were assured anonymity.

The sampling method that was used in the research is

probability sampling. This method was chosen because it is based

on random procedure, everybody has an equal chance of being

selected and it ensures that the sample is a representation of

the population being studied. The sampling technique that was

employed is simple random. This is because a large sample can be

quickly drawn, every unit has the same chance of selection. The

selection procedure was not bias in any way and general

conclusions could be made about the individuals being studied. It

also allowed the researcher to establish an accurate sampling

frame; that is, each element of the population were listed and

the choices of the opposed element were chosen.

The sample size includes 20 individuals from Chricton Drive and

Campbell Lane in Mount Salem who are currently unemployed and

those who are not attending school. These persons include both

male and female in the age group of 16-45. This was necessary as

it kept the focus of the research. These individuals were

selected randomly from each community.

26

The data collection tool of choice is questionnaire (see

appendix B). This is because a questionnaire saves the researcher

time, since a large number can be administered at the same time.

They can be used to reach a large number of people even if they

are geographically dispersed and questionnaires can be easily

analysed.

The questionnaire includes fourteen (14) closed or fixed and

open-ended questions. This is because closed or fixed questions

provide responses that can be more easily classified and

quantified. In addition it saves both the researcher and the

respondent time. Also, it requires relatively little effort and

ingenuity to arrive at statements describing the percentages of

respondents who gave different answers.

On January 11, 2011 the researcher visited the communities of

Chricton Drive and Campbell Lane in Mount Salem. Twenty (20)

questionnaires were distributed to the participants. Ten (10)

individuals were selected randomly from Chricton Drive and ten

(10) also from Campbell Lane. The data collected was then

analysed using tallies and percentages and presented using pie

charts, line graphs, bar graphs, cycle chart, bubble chart,

doughnut graph, pyramid, hierarchy chat, circle graph, column

graphs and a table.

27

Data Collection Sources

Cigarette Smoking Causes More Arterial Damage in Women Than in Men,

Study Finds (2011) Retrieved November 26, 2011 from

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/

2011/08/110829070512.htm

This source was very useful in the research paper as it provided

valid information on the susceptibility of women to men to the

direct impacts of cigarette smoking. This article is also current

as it was released/published on August 29, 2011 which adds to the

validity of the source. The information relates to the particular

topic being studied however, it does not extensively evaluate the

susceptibility of the impact on men.

Cigarette Smoking (2011) Retrieved September 30, 2011 from

28

http://www.cancer.org/Cancer/CancerCauses/

TobaccoCancer/CigaretteSmoking/cigarette-smoking-who-

and-how-affects-health

Significantly, this primary source assisted in providing current

statistics on the impact of cigarette smoking on adults from

previous research done. Hence, some level of reliability. The

studies mentioned in this article were conducted in 2009 which

proves that the statistics are indeed current hence, valid.

Information on the various health problems associated with

cigarette smoking were also provided. However, while the data may

be valid, reliability is only extensive because the internet site

does not have the name of the author or organization who

maintains the site.

Escandón, R., Gàlvez, C., (2005), Free from drugs and addictions,

New Lifestyle Publisher, Madrid, Spain.

Information from this source was useful because it provided a

brief overview on factors that would cause teenagers to want to

smoke initially. It also consists of information done on previous

researches which proves that it is a valid source. However, the

validity is challenged because this source may be a replication

of other sources about similar topics.

Goldberg, R., (2008), Taking Sides, Clashing Views Drugs and

Society, McGraw Hill Publishers, New York.

29

This particular source can be credited for providing most of the

opposing views of others on the research topic. As such a

discussion was created. This source is also very authentic and

reliable since the publisher is reputable and known for

publishing similar materials for many years.

Hagley, K. (2010, February 12) Smoking ban makes sense, The

Gleaner, A7.

This news paper article contributed greatly to the research paper

as it provided the view of an expert in the field which makes the

research more reliable. The author highlights valid points on the

impact that this practice can have on individual’s lives.

Jamaica Observer – Smoking: the right to choose (2011)

Retrieved September 30, 2011 from

http://m.jamaicaobserver.com/mobile/columns/Smoking--

the-right-to-choose 9011086

This internet source was also of significance wherein it provided

also statistics from previous research done on the impacts of

cigarette smoking on the body. Hence, it is valid. The writer of

this article Deborah Chen is the executive director of the Heart

Foundation of Jamaica. Her professional standards thus make her

an expert in the field of the effects of smoking on individuals.

This does in fact heighten the reliability of this source.

Statistics revealed in her work were current also data from as

early as 2006, 2008 and 2010. Therefore, there is much validity.

30

Smoking’s Immediate Effects On The Body (2009), Retrieved November

26, 2011 from

http://www.tobaccofreekids.org/research/factsheets/

pdf/0264.p

Like other sources, this source also provided in details the

direct impact of cigarette smoking on individuals in terms of

symptoms and so forth. Hence this source helped to keep the focus

of the research paper. It is quite valid as it is relative to the

circumstances the researcher is applying it to. Furthermore, the

writers of this source are doctors with a cause campaigning for

Tobacco-Free Kids program. Hence, there is much professional

standards evident in this work which adds to the reliability. The

organization who maintains the site and the year published was

also available to the researcher which proves validity.

Tobacco Smoking Impacts Teens’ Brains, Study Shows (2011) Retrieved

November 17, 2011 from

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/

2011/03/110302152820.htm

Extensively, this source contributed significantly to the

research paper as an actual research was done on the impact on

teenagers. The sample size chosen (25 smokers and 25 non-smokers

between the ages of 15-21) was large enough for generalizations

to be accurate, hence validity. The data was collected using

31

reliable methods however the researcher is not sure or there was

no proof of the data being accurately recorded.

The Institute for Youth Development: Tobacco and Youth (1998)

Retrieved November 11, 2011 from

http://www.youthdevelopment.org/download/tobacco.pdf

This source also assisted greatly in providing statistics in the

research paper. It also highlighted that cigarette smoking can

result in other health compromising behaviours when teenagers

smoke. This also adds to the validity of the paper that cigarette

smoking is indeed bad for health. Research by experts in the

field was also provided as well as current statistics which

proves validity and reliability. Data from the Institute for

Youth Development is credible as this organization has a very

good reputation in terms of dealing with issues relating to

youths and their behaviours which includes the smoking of

cigarettes. Thus, this particular source was quite reliable.

Women More Susceptible To Harmful Effects Of Smoking, Study Finds

(2009) Retrieved November 11, 2011 from

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/

2009/05/090518172435.htm

This source played a significant role in the research paper given

the fact that it covers an entire heading in the literature

32

review showing which sex group is indeed more susceptible to the

effects of cigarette smoking. The organization which maintains

the site was provided as well as the date in which the article

was published which brings out the reliability. Moreover, Dr

Cecilie Soerheim is a medical doctor at the Brigham Women’s

hospital. This would mean that she is an expert in the field,

hence the source is credible and authentic. However, one major

problem established by the researcher is that like a previous

source, it failed to show the extent to why men could not be more

susceptible than women.

World Health Organization: Health effects of smoking among young

people (ND) Retrieved November 18, 2011 from

http://www.who.int/tobacco/research/youth/health

effects/en/

This internet source was indeed helpful as it highlighted long

term as well as short term health effects of cigarette smoking on

not just teenagers but also on adults. The fact that the

information was released by a well known health organization with

a strong reputation of carrying out their role and

responsibilities and have been maintained over the years proves

that the data is indeed reliable.

33

Presentation of Data

Female Male0%

10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%

25%

75%

Line graph showing the sex of the respondents

SexPerc

enta

ge o

f Re

spon

dent

s

Fig. 1.1

34

16 - 25 years 25 - 35 years 35 - 45 years0%10%20%30%40%50%60%

50%

35%

15%

Column Graph showing the respective age groups of the respondents

Age groupPerc

enta

ge o

f re

spon

dent

s

Fig. 1.2

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%

20%

60%

10% 10%

Bubble chart showing the different age groups at which the respondents

started smoking.

Series 1Age group

Perc

enta

ge o

f Re

spon

dent

s

Fig. 1.3

35

10%

80%

5%5%

Pie chart showing how often each respondent smokes.

Once or twice per dayMore than twice per dayOnce or twice a week

Fig. 1.4

95%

5%

Doughnut graph showing the views of the respondents in regards to whether or not they think smoking

is bad for their health.

YesNo

Fig. 1.5

36

Other (specify)Presence of blood in saliva

Pain in the stomach or throat

Abnormal breathingCoughing

0% 5% 10%15%20%25%30%35%40%45%50%

10%10%

20%

10%

50%

Bar graph showing the various symptoms of sickness the respondents experience while smoking or after.

Percentage of RespondentsSymptoms of sickness

Fig. 1.6

Pyramid showing the ranking of the effect of

cigarette smoking from greatest to least by the

respondents.

37

Fig. 1.7

Hierarchy chart showing the emotional state each

participant undergoes when a cigarette is unreachable.

Fig. 1.8

4 0 %Death due to cancer

2 0 %

Heart attack

2 0 %Higher risk of

miscarriage

1 0 %Increased

heart rate

1 0 %

Sexually impotent

Depression40%

Aggression

30%

Weight Loss

5%Urge to engage in violent

activities 0%Other

0%

Stress 25%

38

Rank 1 Rank 2 Rank 3 Rank 4 Rank 50%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

0.05

20% 0.2

0.25

0.3

Column graph showing the ranking of the effects of smoking on women from least to

greatest by the respondents.Reduced lung function than menHigher level of blood pressure than menEarly menopauseEarly delivery of babyHigher risk of miscarriage

Fig. 1.9

Circle graph showing the ranking of the effects of

smoking on men from greatest to least by the

respondents.

Higher cholesterol level than womenLoss of strength in arms and legsIncreased heart rate than in womenPersistent hoarseness in men than womenInability to satisfy women sexually

30%

25%

25%

10%

10%

39

Fig. 2.0

Cycle chart showing other forms of drugs the

respondents consume.

Fig. 2.1

Alcohol 60%

Marijuana 20%

Cocaine 10%

Heroine 10%

Other (specify) 0%

40

Yes No0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80% 70%

30%

Line graph showing direct response on whether or not the respondents understand the consequences of

cigarette smoking.

Direct Response

Percentage of respondents

Fig. 2.2

0%10%20%30%40%

20%40% 30%

10%

Column graph showing some of the consequences each respondent has

experienced while smoking.

Consequences

Perc

enta

ge o

f Re

spon

dent

s

Fig. 2.3

41

Table showing the responses as to whether or not eachrespondent is going to continue smoking and why.

Going to continue and why.

Not going to continue and why

Yes I am going to continue smoking because it keeps me calm and helps me to meditate.

Yes, because the feeling I get from smoking is like noother. It takes all my problems away.

Yes, because I am just not ready to stop smoking.

No, I am not going to stop because I only smoke socially. It’s not like a everyday habit.

No, I am not going to stop.

I am going to stop smoking because it is very cancerous and it is not good for your health.

I am not going to continue smoking. Why? Because smoking is not a good thing for health wise such as it can causecancer in various parts of the body and also end up losing your life.

The reason why I’m about to stop smoking is because it can cause harmto the body such as lung cancer and different

42

The feeling too nice.

Yes because it helps to relieve stress.

Yes because when I am stressed out that’s the only thing that takes my mind off everything else inthis world.

No, I won’t stop because it’s something I do to havefun and to keep me calm.

No, am going to continue because sometimes I am under stress and problems and only smoking can relieve it.

I’m not going to stop smoking because it help to motivate me whenever problems over power me, smoking always helps me to focus.

No I am not going to stop because when I smoke it gives me a different vibes.

illness to the body and it might lead to death.

Yes I am going to stop because I have my school work to do.

Yes I am going to stop smoking because smoking is harmful for human consumption. In other words smoking kills!

Yes I am going to stop smoking because smoking can cause dangerous problems of different organs in the human body.

I am going to stop smoking because I am going into church.

I will stop smoking soon since my family is concerned about my healthand I would like to please them.

No because it is not healthy. It will affect or destroy my lungs and give me bronchitis which is dangerous and cause death.

Fig. 2.4

43

Interpretation of Findings

The statistics presented in Figure 1.1 above revealed that

the majority (75%) of the respondents who participated in the

44

study are males. This might be an indication that males are

heavier and more frequent smokers than females.

As seen in Figure 1.2 it is the age group 16-25 years (50%) which

is most heavily involved in smoking. This suggests that the

prevalence of cigarette smoking is among the youngest individuals

in the Mount Salem. Though adults smoke cigarette, it not as

dominant among them as it is amid teenagers and those individuals

in their twenties as revealed also by the figure. These findings

could also mean that these individuals (16-25 years) are less

aware or are not educated about the effects of cigarette smoking

hence, this practice is more prevalent among them. Whereas, the

adults (25-35 and 35-45 years) are more experienced and therefore

may be more cognizant of the dangers of cigarette smoking. The

statistics presented in Figure 1.3 supports this as 60% of the

participants indicated that they started smoking from as early as

16 years of age. Since they started smoking so early then

gradually they would develop more understanding and be more

cognizant about cigarette smoking and the effects it has on their

bodies. Surprisingly, the bubble chart (figure 1.3) further

reveals that only 10% of the respondents started smoking between

36-45 years. One can then infer that these individuals will have

a shorter life span than the others because as the results of the

research reveals, individuals within this age bracket are more

susceptible to the effects of cigarette smoking which includes

various cancers, heart attack, stroke etc.

45

Figure 1.4 above is a Pie chart showing how often each

respondent smokes. As indicated, the majority of the respondents

(80%) smoke more than twice per day. One may infer that of the

entire population in Chrichton Drive and Campbell Lane in Mount

Salem who smoke cigarettes, they are likely to have a shorter

life expectancy rate than others who smoke only once or twice a

week or not at all. Individuals who smoke more than twice a day

are in fact more exposed to the dangers of cigarette smoking.

Furthermore, since the majority of the respondents are males

(75%), the population in both areas will soon decrease leaving

more women than men.

This not withstanding, 95% of the participants confessed that

smoking is bad for their health. Figure 1.5 reveals that even

those who smoke less than twice per week acknowledge that smoking

is not a good habit. As such, in Figure 2.4, the table

illustrates some persons saying that they are going to stop

smoking because “smoking is very cancerous and it is not good for

your health”. Other responses included: “Yes I am going to stop

smoking because smoking can cause dangerous problems of different

organs in the human body”. Despite the fact that the majority of

the respondents are aware that smoking is bad for their health

many are still reluctant to quit the habit. As a result Figure

2.4 also reveals some persons saying, “Yes I am going to continue

smoking because it keeps me calm and helps me to meditate” or

“Yes I am going to continue smoking because it helps to relieve

stress or the feeling too nice.

46

The Bar graph above (figure 1.6) shows the various symptoms of

sickness the respondents experience while smoking or after. 50%

of the participant experience coughing, 10% suffer from abnormal

breathing, 20% feels pain in the stomach or throat, 10% come

across the presence of blood in saliva and 10% of the respondents

experience other symptoms of sickness such as hoarse throat and

dizziness. One may assume that cigarette smoking does in fact

have a negative impact on those persons who smoke in Mount Salem.

The most dominant effect during or after smoking a cigarette is

coughing which may lead to further problems such as lung cancer

or sore throat. It may also be possible that these persons may

not just experience one of these symptoms but more than one or

even all. If this is the case then cigarette smoking has many

negative effects associated with it despite the fact that others

may believe it does more good than harm. Because of these

symptoms also some of the respondents are willing and eager to

stop smoking.

The questionnaire respondent’s view on the greatest to least

effects of cigarette smoking was also queried. Based on the

statistics revealed in the study as shown in Figure 1.7, death

due to cancer was ranked the fifth greatest effect by the

majority (40%) of the respondents whereas the minority (10%)

ranked sexually impotent as the least effect of cigarette

smoking. The fact that the most prevalent effects are ranked the

highest indicates that the participants are cognizant of the

effects of cigarette smoking on their bodies. Death due to cancer

47

and heart attack are the most prevalent effects noticeable in

society today as a result of cigarette smoking. The others were

ranked the lowest which suggests that there is not much knowledge

on those effects. Also, though the respondents may not experience

these effects firsthand the responses suggest that they are aware

of their surroundings or what is taking place in society. These

effects may have affected a close friend or family member of the

each respondent.

The majority of the participants (40%) as seen in Figure 1.8

suffer from depression, 30% becomes very aggressive, 25%

undergoes stress, and 5% indicated that they experience weight

loss when a cigarette is unreachable. 0% of the respondents did

not indicate whether they had an urge to engage in violent

activities. Given that depression is experienced by most of the

respondents it can be assumed that cigarettes have become a vital

or important part of the individuals’ lives. It is almost as if

they cannot function without a cigarette and as soon as one is

unreachable, they break down. This may also result in them

resorting to the consumption of other illegal drugs which is

proven in Figure 2.1. The Cycle chart demonstrates that the

majority of the respondents (60%) consume alcohol while the

remainder of the sample size consumes other drugs such as

marijuana etc. As clearly seen the participants exhaust alcohol

when a cigarette is unreachable. This is because it is less

expensive than the other drugs and there is much easier access to

it. Consuming both cigarette and these other substances can cause

48

serious damage to the body and in most instances the respondents

consume not just one of these drugs but at times more than one or

all. It can also mean that consumption of both cigarette and

other drugs will lead to more drastic effects on the participants

in relation to their health.

The findings of Figure 1.9 contradicts that of Figure 2.0 as a

significant number of the respondents believes that the effects

of cigarette smoking on men and women varies in terms of which

one is more dangerous than the other. 25% of the participants as

seen in Figure 1.9, ranked early delivery of baby as the fourth

greatest and higher risk of miscarriage was ranked the greatest

effect by 30% of the respondents. One can assume then that the

respondents have different views on how much damage cigarette

smoking has on women. It is important to note that the

respondents chose a response that not just persons who smoke can

relate to but also individuals who do not smoke and this is that

the greatest effect is indeed higher risk of miscarriage. The

respondents thus gravitate more towards the options they are more

familiar with thus, showing the effects of cigarette smoking on

these individuals. This is also evident in the responses

indicated in Figure 2.0 where 30% of the respondents ranked

inability to satisfy women sexually as the greatest effect on

men, 25% believes that persistent hoarseness in men than women

has the fourth greatest effect etc. Therefore, these findings

reinforce the point made above that the respondents chooses the

options they can relate to.

49

In the presentation of data above, Figure 2.2 is a Line graph

showing the direct responses of whether or not the respondents

understand the consequences of cigarette smoking. The majority of

the respondents, 70% said yes they understand the consequences

whereas 30% said no they do not understand. As seen in Figure 2.3

which is a Column graph displaying some of the consequences each

respondent experienced while smoking, the majority of the

respondents (40%) struggles with addiction. One may infer that

after just one cigarette most individuals become addicted hence,

they smoke more than twice per day as highlighted in the findings

of Figure 1.4. However, though many are experiencing these

consequences they are still refusing to stop smoking.

Optimistically, the 30% will soon understand the consequences of

cigarette smoking and will opt to stop immediately thus reducing

the negative and harmful effects of cigarette smoking.

50

Discussion of Findings

As established by the Jamaica Health and Lifestyle Survey

(2008), 40% of smokers begin smoking from as early as age 16.

This was also in keeping with the findings of The National

Council on Drug Abuse which shows that 17.8% of young people 13-

15 years old are current smokers of cigarettes. This study is

clearly in keeping with previous studies as it was found that the

majority of the sample size initiates smoking from age 16 and

even younger. For adults also the findings in Figure 1.3 prove

that though they are smokers within their forties, they started

smoking from as early as age 16 as stated by 60% of the

respondents. Moreover, there is a contradictory belief that

cigarette smoking influences the behaviours of teenagers. One

organization (The Institute for Youth Development) revealed that

there are a lot of health-compromising behaviours that are

associated with cigarette smoking by adolescence such as taking

weapons to school, getting involved in fights, using other drugs

including alcohol etc. However, writers such as Levy and Rosalind

51

are on the opposing side with the view that cigarette smoking

does not result in the actions of teenagers as stated by the The

Institute for Youth Development. They argue that cigarette

smoking does not cause intoxication and it most definitely does

not cause violent behaviors in adolescence. Despite all these

claims, the research in fact proves or is more in agreement with

Levy and Rosalind. Based on the results of this research, none

(0%) of the respondents in Figure 1.8 indicated that when a

cigarette is unreachable it causes them to engage in violent

activities. This implies then that cigarette smoking has other

impacts on the individual rather than causing them to engage in

violent behaviours when a cigarette is out of reach. On the other

hand, the results prove that they do consume other drugs

especially alcohol as stated by the institute. Since cigarette

smokers consume other drugs especially alcohol c

As it relates to adults and cigarette smoking, Goldberg

(2008) writes that cigarette smoking has many negative effects on

adults such as heart attacks, reduction of blood flow, and fatal

coronary heart disease among many others. As seen in Figure 1.7,

when asked to rank the effects of cigarette smoking from greatest

to least the respondents concluded that death due to cancer was

the greatest effect of cigarette smoking and heart attack had the

second greatest effect. Hence, Goldberg (2008) is correct.

Statistics revealed by Goldberg (2008) states that smoking is

responsible for 30% of deaths among adults age 35 and 69 years.

However, with more drastic figures The Centers for Disease

52

Control and Prevention estimated that cigarette smoking is

responsible for 90% of all deaths in men and 80% of all lung

cancer. Also adult male smokers lost an average of 13.2 years of

life while female lost 14.5 years of life due to smoking.

(Cigarette Smoking, 2011). However the findings show that more

males in Chrichton and Campbell Lane smokes cigarette than

females (75% males and 25% females). With these findings one can

then imply that more males will die in both areas at a faster

rate than females if they continue smoking.

Furthermore, Dr Charles Davis states that there are many

symptoms of cigarette smoking including hoarseness, coughing,

nicotine-stained fingers etc. Other symptoms included difficulty

or pain on swallowing, increased heart rate and so on. The

findings have been in accordance with what Dr Davis posits. Based

on the results of the research the majority of smokers in both

areas of study do experience symptoms such as coughing, abnormal

breathing, pain in the throat or stomach as seen in Figure 1.6.

All the symptoms have a negative impact on the body and thus show

that cigarette smoking is bad for health. Though this is evident,

a minority of the respondents in Chrichton Drive and Campbell

Lane believe that smoking is not bad for their health. As the

study reveals, smokers in both areas are faced with many health

challenges such as frequent colds and upper respiratory

infections, chest pains and the most prominent one, addiction.

The World Health Organization with similar results states that

teenage smokers suffer from the symptoms of cigarette smoking

53

especially shortness of breath almost three times as often as

adults who never smoked. The organization also revealed that on

average, persons who smoke a pack or more of cigarettes each day

live 7 years less than average someone who never smoked. Within

the sample size it was found that the majority of the respondents

do smoke cigarettes more than twice per day. This implies that

these individuals will have a shorter life span than those in the

same communities who never smoked. Hence, this is in keeping with

The World Health Organization. Studies conducted by many doctors

such as Dr Soerheim and Dr Tremoli have proved that women are

more susceptible to the effects of cigarette smoking than men.

When asked to rank the effects on women most of the respondents

indicated that higher risk of miscarriages as well as early

delivery of baby are the most drastic effects.

On the other hand, they believe that inability to satisfy women

sexually and persistent hoarseness and increased heart rate in

men than women has the most effect on men. Though there is not

much contradiction these findings are able to stand on their own.

One may infer then that the matter of who is more susceptible to

the effects of cigarette smoking whether it be male or female is

up to the respondents themselves. According to the Centers for

Disease Control and Prevention in 2000 about 8.6 million people

had at least one chronic disease due to smoking. They go further

to say that many diseases seen most often due to cigarette

smoking were heart attacks, cancer, stroke, chronic bronchitis

etc. Dr Hagley with the same results said that cigarette smoking

54

also increases complications of diabetes and hypertension. As

seen in Figure 1.7 death due to cancer and heart attack was

ranked the highest effects by the majority of the participants.

This implies that cigarette smoking has affected the lives of

many (health wise) in a negative way whether directly or

indirectly. Figure 1.6 also reinforces this as many do experience

various symptoms especially coughing due to smoking and as the

study reveals coughing leads to lung cancer which later results

in death. As such cigarette does lead to many health compromising

effects. On the other hand, The World Health Organization

believes that the more short term effects of cigarette smoking

are respiratory effects, addiction to nicotine as well as the

risk of other drug use. This is very much in keeping with the

findings of Figure 2.1 which clearly illustrates that the

majority of the participants living in Chricton Drive and

Campbell Lane in Mount Salem consume many other drugs especially

alcohol. The fact that a majority of the respondents consume

marijuana which is similar to cigarettes proves that these

individuals have become an essential part of their lives as many

become depressed and stressed when a cigarette is unreachable

(see figure 1.8).

It is imperative to agree that based on the findings

presented in the Literature review and the results of the

research, there is not a huge disparity. Thus, the researcher’s

hypothesis has been accepted in most areas. Various health

problems result from cigarette smoking and statistics presented

55

in the Literature review has proven this. Many teenagers as well

as adults engage in the habit of smoking. Some understand the

health compromising effects of the habit and refuse to stop while

others do not. Though there are many organizations in place that

educate these individuals about the habit and provide support for

them, many do not appreciate the gestures or they just do not

care. Cigarette smoking has also resulted in many cancers in

various parts of the body as well as other major illnesses such

heart attacks, stroke etc. and this has led to the death of many.

Conclusion

The main purpose of this study is to highlight the impacts

of cigarette smoking on the human body. It is also aimed at

making individuals more aware of this particular drug they are

consuming with the hope that they will develop the urge to

eventually quit smoking. This paper also seeks to add to previous

researches done on this particular topic. Based on the results of

this research it can now be concluded that cigarette smoking is

practiced by many between the ages of 16-45 years. Individuals

begin smoking from as early as age 15 and continue the habit

throughout adulthood. The research also reveals that many

symptoms result from cigarette smoking. These include coughing,

abnormal breathing, presence of blood in the saliva, hoarseness

among many others. The symptoms later develop into major problem

56

such as cancers in various parts of the body such as the throat,

lungs, larynx, mouth etc. However it added to the hypothesis by

also emphasizing death due to stroke, heart attack among other

illnesses. Thus it can be seen that the main impact of cigarette

smoking is on the individual mostly. The research also suggests

that females are more susceptible to the effects of cigarette

smoking. Females are more prone to intense or more dangerous

effects such as miscarriages, early menopause, early delivery of

baby etc. On the other hand the effects on men are not as

dangerous as on women. Cigarette smoking affects men in that they

become weak in the arms and leg, they become sexually impotent,

increased heart rate than in women etc. Cigarette smoking is bad

for health and has a number of health risks which eventually

leads to death not immediately but later on. Consequently, the

researcher’s hypotheses have been confirmed. Cigarette smoking

does have a number of impacts, mainly negative, on the health of

individuals 16-45 years of age in the areas of Chricton Drive and

Campbell Lane in Mount Salem, St. James.

Recommendation

57

It is highly recommended that more effort be placed in

ensuring that individuals especially teenagers become more

exposed to the dangers of cigarette smoking. Though some measures

have been put in place to ensure this obviously they are not

working. Greater emphasis should be placed on schools to not just

provide students with a theoretical evaluation of what smoking

does to the body but also to let them experience it on a first

hand basis. For instance, have more field trips going into

rehabilitation centers thereby allowing students to see what

emotional and physical turmoil those persons undergo as a result

of cigarette smoking. Similarly, take students into the hospitals

where they can actually have discussions with cancer patients

etc. As such they may want to quit the practice before it turns

into an addiction and even encourage others including elders to

stop smoking also. Furthermore, the media needs to get more

involved in promoting programs that speak out against cigarette

smoking. Rather than having programs that are in keeping with

formality put a spin to in and incorporate the Jamaican Creole/

Patois enabling teenagers as well as adult to relate more to what

is being said. In so doing the message will be brought clearly

across and it may also grab their attention. Drama programs can

be established with people of similar age groups performing

skits, songs etc about the effects of cigarette smoking as part

of the education campaign.

Moreover, the researcher recommends that organizations such as

the Ministry of Health and The Jamaica Coalition of Tobacco

58

Control, The National Council on Drug Abuse among others do more

to assist young people in dealing with their addiction. Have

trained field officers/counselors going into the deep rural areas

where cigarette smoking is prevalent and socialize with them on a

casual basis so as to reach especially those who are not part of

all formal educational system. This will also allow them to open

up more and be motivated intensely to reject cigarettes and all

other forms of drugs that are deemed harmful to their bodies.

Also, have persons who have gone through similar situation to

talk and share their experiences with them. Overall, cigarette

smoking is very harmful to the body and everything and everyone

should do their utmost best to ensure that this habit does not

destroy the society.

Limitation

There were not many challenges encountered by the researcher

throughout the period of this study. However, there was a delay

in the research process as the time expected to retrieve the

questionnaires from the respondents did not go as planned. Also

there was a challenge in finding participants to fill out the

questionnaires because those who had volunteered to participate

prior to the distribution of the questionnaires changed their

minds at the last minute. However the researcher tried her best

59

in ensuring that these challenges were quickly overcome which

resulted in the successful completion of this project.

Reference

60

Cigarette Smoking Causes More Arterial Damage in Women Than in Men, Study

Finds (2011) Retrieved November 26, 2011 from

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/

2011/08/110829070512.htm

Cigarette Smoking (2011) Retrieved September 30, 2011 from

http://www.cancer.org/Cancer/CancerCauses/

TobaccoCancer/CigaretteSmoking/cigarette-smoking-who-

and-how-affects-health

Escandón, R., Gàlvez, C., (2005), Free from drugs and addictions,

New Lifestyle Publisher, Madrid, Spain.

Goldberg, R., (2008), Taking Sides, Clashing Views Drugs and Society,

McGraw Hill Publishers, New York.

Hagley, K. (2010, February 12) Smoking ban makes sense, The

Gleaner, A7.

The Jamaica Observer, Smoking: the right to choose (2011) Retrieved

September 30, 2011 from

http://m.jamaicaobserver.com/mobile/columns/Smoking--

the-right-to-choose 9011086

Smoking’s Immediate Effects On The Body (2009), Retrieved November

26, 2011 from

http://www.tobaccofreekids.org/research/factsheets/

pdf/0264.p

61

Tobacco Smoking Impacts Teens’ Brains, Study Shows (2011) Retrieved

November 17, 2011 from

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/

2011/03/110302152820.htm

The Institute for Youth Development: Tobacco and Youth (1998)

Retrieved November 11, 2011 from

http://www.youthdevelopment.org/download/tobacco.pdf

Women More Susceptible To Harmful Effects Of Smoking, Study Finds (2009)

Retrieved November 11, 2011 from

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/

2009/05/090518172435.htm

World Health Organization: Health effects of smoking among young

people (ND) Retrieved November 18, 2011 from

http://www.who.int/tobacco/research/youth/health

effects/en/

62

63

Appendix A

Cover Letter

Shettlewood Housing Scheme

Ramble P.O.

Hano

ver

Dear Participants,

I am Terry-Ann Whyte, a student of the Montego Bay

Community College. It is important to answer this instrument as

an Internal Assessment is a requirement for each course subject

in the Pre-University Department. Hence, I am doing this research

for Caribbean Studies. This questionnaire seeks to investigate

the impacts of cigarette smoking on individuals 16- 45 years of

age in Mount Salem. I would appreciate it if you answer all the

64

questions on this questionnaire to the best of your ability.

Please be informed that your identity is not necessary when

filling out this questionnaire. It will take you approximately 5

minutes or less to complete the questionnaire. Thanks for your

cooperation.

Yours Sincerely

_____________

Terry-Ann Whyte

Appendix B

Questionnaire

Instruction: Tick the correct responses suitable to your choice in the box provided. For those questions that are ranked please place your response in the box also.

1. What is your sex?

65

Female

Male

2. What age group do you belong?

16 - 25 years

25 - 35 years

35 - 45 years

3. At what age did you start smoking?

9-15 years

16-25 years

26-35 years

36-45 years

4. How often do you smoke?

Once or twice per day

More than twice per day

Once or twice a week

More than once or twice per week

5. Do you think smoking is bad for your health?

Yes

No

66

If yes go to question 6, if no go to question

7.

6. What are some of the symptoms of sickness you experience

while smoking or after?

Coughing

Abnormal breathing

Pain in the Stomach or throat

Presence of blood in saliva

Other (specify) __________________

7. Rank the effect of cigarette smoking from least to

greatest with 1 being the least and 5 being the greatest.

Death due to cancer

Higher risk of miscarriage

Sexually impotent

Heart attack

Increased heart rate

8. What emotional state do you undergo when a cigarette is

unreachable?

Depression

Stress

67

Weight Loss

Aggression

Urge to engage in violent activities

Other (specify) _______________________

9. Rank the effects of smoking on women from least to

greatest with 1 being the least and 5 being the greatest.

High risk of miscarriage

Early menopause

Higher level of blood pressure than men

Early delivery of baby

Reduced lung function than men

10. Rank

the effects of smoking on men from least to greatest with

1 being the least and 5 being the greatest. Loss of strength in arms and legs

Persistent hoarseness than in women

Inability to satisfy women sexually

Higher cholesterol level than women

Increased heart rate than in women

68

11. What

other forms of drugs do you consume?

Alcohol

Marijuana

Cocaine

Heroine

Other (specify) ___________________

12. Do

you understand the consequences of cigarette smoking?

Yes

No

If yes, answer question 13. If no, go to question 14.

13. What

are some of the consequences you have experienced while

smoking?

Still birth

Addiction

Death

Heart attack

Other (specify) ________________________

69

14. State

whether or not you are going to continue smoking and why.

_________________________________________________________

_________

_________________________________________________________________

_

_________________________________________________________________

_

__________________________________________________________________