How Smoking Cigarettes Affects Overall Health

By Md Ijaj Khan
25 Nov 2022, 19:25 IST

Smoking cigarettes can have many adverse effects on the body. Some of these can lead to life-threatening complications. Here’s how smoking cigarettes affects overall health.

Lung Damage

Cigarettes are responsible for substantial increase in the risk of developing lung cancer. People who smoke cigarettes inhale nicotine, among other chemicals that damage the lungs.

Lung Cancer

Cigarette smoking is regarded as a major risk factor in the development of lung cancer, which is the main cause of cancer death in men and women who smoke tobacco.

Fertility Problems

The toxins in cigarettes, including tobacco, have an impact on hormone levels. It becomes more challenging for the female to become pregnant as it harms their reproductive system.

Heart Diseases

The risk of atherosclerosis, or the accumulation of plaque in the blood arteries, is increased by the chemicals and tar found in cigarettes. The accumulation restricts blood flow and may cause harmful blockages.

Risk Of Type-2 Diabetes

Regular smokers have a 30- 40% increased risk of type 2 diabetes as compared to non-smokers.

Weaken Immune System

Smoking damages the immune system, making a person more prone to sickness.

Poor Oral Hygiene

People who smoke have two times the risk of gum disease. Symptoms of gum diseases include swollen and tender gums, loose teeth, sensitive teeth, etc.

You might find it challenging to totally quit smoking because nicotine is an addictive substance and can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Seek help from a health expert and make progress in your efforts to quit smoking.