Smoking can be actively doing it oneself or passively inhaling second-hand smoke and both can have negative health consequences. Active smoking directly harms the smoker and increases the risks of various cancers, stroke, lung disease, and other ailments. Passive smoking also exposes non-smokers to health risks when they inhale second-hand smoke. While vaping and hookah were thought to be safer alternatives, they still expose users to harmful chemicals like nicotine and toxins. Smoking is addictive due to nicotine, making it difficult for many to quit even though cessation helps reduce health risks over time.