Final answer:
The relationship between smoking and premature mortality is positive; the more a person smokes, the greater the likelihood of dying prematurely.
Step-by-step explanation:
The relationship between smoking and premature mortality is a. positive; the greater a person smokes, the greater the likelihood that he or she will die prematurely.
Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death worldwide and is responsible for about six million deaths each year. Long-term smokers can expect their lifespan to be reduced by up to 18 years and are three times more likely to die before the age of 70 compared to non-smokers.
Smoking is associated with various health risks, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and other adverse effects on the reproductive system and overall health.