Question

which is a burden that tobacco use places on society?
○ an increase in the number of people with cancer
○ an increase in the costs for purchasing tobacco products
○ a decrease in the number of people with disabilities
○ a decrease in the risk of generating house fires

Explanation:

To determine the burden of tobacco use on society, we analyze each option:

• "an increase in the number of people with cancer": Tobacco use is a major risk factor for various cancers (e.g., lung, throat, etc.). An increase in cancer cases due to tobacco use places a burden on society in terms of healthcare costs, loss of productivity, and human suffering.
• "an increase in the costs for purchasing tobacco products": This is a personal cost for the tobacco user, not a societal burden in the context of harm to society as a whole.
• "a decrease in the number of people with disabilities": Tobacco use is associated with an increased risk of disabilities (e.g., respiratory disabilities, cardiovascular - related disabilities), so this option is incorrect.
• "a decrease in the risk of generating house fires": Tobacco use (e.g., smoking in bed) actually increases the risk of house fires, so this option is incorrect.

Answer:

A. an increase in the number of people with cancer