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What is smoking?

Smoking is the act of inhaling and exhaling the smoke of tobacco or a similar substance. Tobacco smoke contains nicotine, an addictive substance, along with numerous harmful chemicals, including tar, carbon monoxide, and formaldehyde. These chemicals can damage the lungs, heart, and other organs.

Why is smoking dangerous?

Smoking is a significant health risk and a leading cause of preventable diseases and death worldwide. It is associated with a variety of serious health issues such as lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease, stroke, and numerous other cancers. Additionally, smoking can worsen existing health conditions and negatively impact overall health and quality of life.

How can I better understand my risks as a smoker?

References specific to the Cardiometabolic Program:

  • Optimal: Non-smoker
  • Good: Quit >5 years
  • Fair: Quit within 1 year, not vaping
  • Pay attention: Quit within 1 year but still on nicotine patch and/or vaping
  • Alert: Still smoking

Here are some key points to gauge your health risks related to smoking:

  • Cancer Risk: Smoking is a primary cause of lung cancer and is linked to cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, pancreas, bladder, cervix, and kidney.
  • Respiratory Problems: Smoking damages the airways and alveoli in the lungs, leading to chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and COPD.
  • Cardiovascular Disease: Smoking contributes to the buildup of plaque in the arteries (atherosclerosis), increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease.
  • Reproductive Health Issues: Smoking can cause infertility and complications during pregnancy, including premature birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth.
  • Other Health Risks: Smoking accelerates the aging process, leading to wrinkles and other skin issues, and can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections.

How can I quit smoking?

If you are a smoker and want to quit, consider the following strategies:

Behavioral Support: Seek professional counseling or join support groups to share experiences and receive encouragement. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help identify triggers and develop coping strategies to quit smoking.

Medical Attention: Using NRT products such as patches, gum, lozenges, nasal spray, or inhalers can help reduce withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, consult with your doctor about medications that can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, such as varenicline (Chantix) or bupropion (Zyban).

Where can I learn more?

DISCLAIMER: IF YOU ARE CONCERNED WITH ANY OF YOUR RESULTS, PLEASE CONSULT WITH YOUR PHYSICIAN.