According to the American Lung Association, smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in our country. The possibility of preventing this widespread problem is causing much controversy and debate throughout our country, leading to changes in the law and increased awareness. More than 393,000 people die each year from smoking and nearly 50,000 people die from second-hand smoke, a testament to the power of tobacco, which creates more than 4,000 chemicals when burned (American Lung Association). Smoking has unfortunately become a very widespread problem, especially among adolescents. Peer pressure has transformed this highly addictive drug not only into a solitary activity, but also into a social engagement sparked by curiosity. In addition to cigarettes, products such as e-cigarettes and hookah have made it increasingly easier to experiment with nicotine, allowing the user to smoke in a non-combustible, smoke-free environment. The public health sector is responsible for preventing disease, promoting health, and extending the lives of millions of Americans who desperately need support. Organized efforts have been made to try to alleviate this difficult situation which, unfortunately, will continue to take years of American lives. There is no definitive answer as to whether the situation will get worse or progress. However, it is evident that inventions such as the electronic cigarette and the hookah have attempted to help people quit smoking. About a third of smokers who use nicotine therapies such as medications and patches eventually relapse. Critics say popular new devices are safe alternatives and could provide public health benefits if millions of people switch to them (Johnson). However, it appears that further evaluations are needed and new anti-smoking methods developed. The...... middle of paper ......Disease Control and Prevention, June 5, 2013. Web. November 10, 2013. Johnson, Steven R. “Sparking Controversy – Modern Healthcare.” Sparking Controversy – Modern Health Care. Modern Healthcare, September 21, 2013. Web. November 10, 2013. Kenny, Tim, Dr. "Patient.co.uk - Trusted Medical Information and Support." Patient.co.uk. Patient.co.uk, May 16, 2012. Web. November 10, 2013. .Lung.org. American Lung Association, nd Web. November 10, 2013. "The new Tobacco Atlas estimates tobacco industry profits at US$35 billion and nearly 6 million deaths per year." The new Tobacco Atlas estimates tobacco industry profits of $35 billion and nearly 6 million deaths per year. World Lung Foundation, March 21, 2012. Web. November 10. 2013.