The use of tobacco is the most preventable cause of death in the United States. Each year, tobacco use is responsible for more than 440,000 deaths, including those caused by secondhand smoke. Smoking accounts for at least 30% of all cancer deaths, making smoking cessation (quitting smoking) the single most important thing a person can do to lower his or her individual cancer risk.

In addition to cigarettes, other forms of tobacco use include cigar/pipe smoking, waterpipes, e-cigarettes, and smokeless tobacco, such as chewing tobacco and snuff. None of these alternatives are a safe substitute for smoking because they can cause serious health problems, including cancer.

Tobacco use is associated with increased risk for at least 15 types of cancer, including:

Even if you have already been diagnosed with cancer, it is never too late to quit. In fact, there are significant health benefits linked to stopping tobacco use after a cancer diagnosis, and your health care team can be a valuable resource for helping you reach this goal.

Here is some more information about tobacco use and quitting smoking:

Tobacco and Cancer

Tobacco Use During Cancer Treatment

Health Risks of Water Pipes, Smokeless Tobacco, and E-cigarettes

Secondhand Smoke and Cancer

Give Your Kids a Smoke-Free Childhood

Quitting Smoking

Quitting Smoking

Stopping Tobacco Use After a Cancer Diagnosis

ASCO Expert Corner: Stopping Tobacco Use After a Cancer Diagnosis

Cancer.Net Podcast: Stopping Tobacco Use After a Cancer Diagnosis

Tobacco Regulation

President Obama Signs FDA Tobacco Bill into Law

Statement of ASCO President on Signing of the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act