Cannabis is the most commonly used federally illegal drug in the United States; 52.5 million people, or about 19% of Americans, used it at least once in 2021.

Recent research estimated that approximately 3 in 10 people who use cannabis have cannabis use disorder.

The risk of developing cannabis use disorder is even greater for people who begin to use it before age 18.

Cannabis use directly affects the parts of the brain responsible for memory, learning, attention, decision-making, coordination, emotion, and reaction time.

Infants, children, and teens (who still have developing brains) are especially susceptible to the adverse effects of cannabis.

Long-term or frequent cannabis use has been linked to increased risk of psychosis or schizophrenia in some user.

Using cannabis during pregnancy may increase the person's risk for pregnancy complications. Pregnant and breastfeeding persons should avoid cannabis.

Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States.

Cigarette smoking causes more than 480,000 deaths each year in the United States. This is nearly one in five deaths.

Smoking causes more deaths each year than the following causes combined:4

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)

Illegal drug use

Alcohol use

Motor vehicle injuries

Firearm-related incidents

More than 10 times as many U.S. citizens have died prematurely from cigarette smoking than have died in all the wars fought by the United States.

Smoking causes about 90% (or 9 out of 10) of all lung cancer deaths.1,2 More women die from lung cancer each year than from breast cancer.

Smoking causes about 80% (or 8 out of 10) of all deaths from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Cigarette smoking increases risk for death from all causes in men and women.

The risk of dying from cigarette smoking has increased over the last 50 years in the U.S.

Adopting a vegetarian lifestyle offers a range of diverse and compelling benefits for both individual health and the environment. For instance, vegetarians typically enjoy a diet abundant in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, all of which are rich in essential nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants. This type of diet can significantly lower the risk of chronic illnesses, including heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and certain cancers.

In addition to personal health benefits, choosing vegetarianism can promote environmental sustainability. The cultivation of plant-based foods usually utilizes fewer resources, such as water and land, and produces lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to meat production. This shift can help minimize one’s carbon footprint while conserving crucial natural resources.

Furthermore, ethical considerations often drive individuals to adopt a vegetarian diet, as many are concerned about animal welfare and wish to avoid contributing to animal suffering. Awareness of the conditions in industrial animal farming is increasing, leading many to find that vegetarianism aligns more closely with their values of compassion and kindness.

It is essential, however, for vegetarians to carefully plan their diets to ensure they receive adequate levels of key nutrients, such as protein, iron, calcium, and vitamin B12, which are often found in animal products. With thoughtful meal planning and, if necessary, the inclusion of supplements, vegetarians can maintain a balanced and nutritious diet.

Ultimately, choosing to become a vegetarian is a personal decision that can foster a healthier lifestyle, contribute to a more sustainable planet, and promote a more ethical approach to food consumption. Whether for health, environmental, or ethical reasons, this choice can positively influence both your life and the world around you.