Cigarette smoking also is strongly linked with complications of pregnancy. More recent evidence indicates that smoking generally commences before the age of 20 and, once begun, is one of the most difficult addictions to end. Smoking is implicated in so many adult health problems that Healthy People 2000 includes an entire section devoted to tobacco-related objectives. The difference in the share of Washington women and men who have ever smoked is significant. In 1994, significantly more Washington men than women were current smokers, but in most years, smoking rates are about the same.
Considerable evidence shows the importance of regular physical activity throughout the life course.
Healthy People 2000 cites exercise as a means of improving mental health and reducing obesity and such chronic diseases as cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and non-insulin dependent diabetes. When a person's lifestyle includes no physical activity either at work or at home, it is said to be sedentary. The proportions are lower in Washington. Slightly more than half of Washington adults do get regular exercise, but their activities are not consistent with national objectives. Walking was the most important activity for Washington women who exercised.