What is one of the main costs associated with tobacco use in public health?

The primary cost associated with tobacco use in public health is the higher rates of preventable diseases and healthcare costs. Tobacco is a leading cause of various serious health conditions, such as heart disease, stroke, respiratory diseases, and numerous forms of cancer. The prevalence of these preventable diseases leads to substantial healthcare expenditures for treatment, hospitalization, and long-term care.

Additionally, the economic impact extends beyond individual health costs to affect healthcare systems, communities, and the economy at large, as governments and insurers bear significant expenses related to tobacco-related illnesses. As health resources are diverted to manage these preventable conditions, systems can become strained, and effective health promotion efforts may be hindered. This makes addressing tobacco use a critical element of community and public health strategies.