effects upon the central nervous system. Nicotine's effects upon hormonal activities of the body is also evident. It elevates the blood level of glucose and increases insulin production. Nicotine also tends to enhance platelet aggregation, which may lead to thrombotic (Error! Bookmark not defined.) events.The "positive" effects of nicotine upon the body may also be noted. It stimulates memory and alertness, enhancing cognitive skills that require speed, reaction time, vigilance and work performance. As a mood-altering agent, it tends to alleviate boredom and reduce Error! Bookmark not defined. and reduces aggressive responses to stressful events. It also tends to be an appetite suppressant, specifically decreasing the appetite for Error! Bookmark not defined. (sweets) and inhibiting the efficiency with which food is metabolized. Peoples who use tobacco products frequently depend upon it providing these side effects to help them accomplish certain tasks at specific levels of performance.The addictive effects of tobacco have been well documented. It is considered mood and behavior altering, psychoactive, and abusable. As a multisystem pharmacological agent that is voluntarily administered, tobacco is believed to have an addictive potential comparable to alcohol, Error! Bookmark not defined., and morphine.ASSOCIATED HEALTH RISKSIn general, Error! Bookmark not defined. exposure to nicotine may cause an acceleration of Error! Bookmark not defined., Error! Bookmark not defined., reproductive disturbances, Error! Bookmark not defined., Error! Bookmark not defined., fetal illnesses and death, and delayed Error! Bookmark not defined. healing. Tobacco, the vehicle of nicotine delivery, contains tar (numerous chemicals that cause a thick, sticky substance when smoked) and about 2,000 chemicals total. Tobacco and its various components have been associated with an increased risk for Error! Bookmark not defined. of various body organs....
