Information Substance abuse is a major public health problem. It affects millions of people and places enormous financial and social burdens on society. It can destroy families, victimize communities and cripple the economy. Below are a few facts that relate to substance abuse and some general information about some commonly abused substances. In addition, it is illegal in the state of Texas to sell or provide tobacco products to any persons under the age of 18.
Tobacco contains nicotine, a drug that is addictive.
Cigarette smoke contains more than 4,000 chemicals, many of which are toxic or have been proven to cause cancer and other illnesses. Cigarette smoking causes heart disease, causes emphysema, causes cancer of the mouth, larynx, esophagus, lungs, pancreas, cervix, uterus, and bladder. Smokeless tobacco causes cancer of the lip, tongue and cheek. Tobacco permanently stains teeth, causes gum disease, causes tooth decay, causes bad breath, constricts blood vessels, and diminishes sense of smell and taste. Virtually every organ in the body is affected and chronic use can lead to numerous preventable diseases, including alcoholism.