Throughout history, mankind has had to struggle with an invisible enemy. This enemy is dangerous because it’s harder to fight than a traditional foe, and it’s just as deadly. It’s bad enough that humans already have to struggle with this issue, but we actually make it even worse for ourselves through our own behavior.

For starters, tobacco use on a global scale is astronomically high considering the costs that come along with it. Tobacco use skyrockets the risk of the US’ to leading killers: cancer and heart disease. These diseases already claim enough lives, and using tobacco only serves to put yourself more at risk. In addition, heart disease is so prevalent partially due to the unhealthy eating habits of American citizens. Americans would rather scarf down a burger at McDonald’s than prepare a nice salad for themselves. It’s plausible to say that these two disease are emerging as quickly as they are mostly due to our own behavior.

Not only is smoking a reckless decision for the individual partaking in this activity, it’s also hurting those around them. Secondhand smoke drastically increases the risk of cancer not only in your family and friends but also in your pets.

Another large contributor to non-natural deaths in the US is alcoholism. Alcoholism is emerging as a disease in the United States, as it’s a product that people abuse on a daily basis that can very possibly lead to their death.