The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists "death" as a consequence of smoking. Smoking also leads to a other health issues, such as cardiac complications, respiratory illness and cancer. The American Cancer Society reports that smoking costs the United States $157 billion each year.
Lung Cancer
The National Cancer Institute estimates that more than 200,000 people die of lung cancer annually. The CDC further states that 90 percent of all lung cancer deaths stem from smoking. Lung cancer typically begins as a small cell cancer that spreads rapidly to other organs. Early detection rarely occurs, so the most effective cure remains removal of a lobe of the affected lung or sometimes, an entire lung.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), serves as an umbrella term for asthma, chronic bronchitis and emphysema. To be diagnosed with COPD, a person must suffer from two out of the three disorders. Each disorder compromises a person's breathing to the point where he believes he may not get his next breath. Although the person feels he cannot get enough oxygen in, the fact is that he actually retains too much carbon dioxide, which doesn't leave enough room for oxygen. Frequently, COPD patients develop a barrel-type chest, wear oxygen in the later stages of the disease and experience frequent hospitalizations. Smoking further complicates COPD by weakening the immune system so the frequency of bronchial infections and asthma attacks rises and emphysema progresses.
Heart Disease
Heart disease ranks as the leading cause of death in the United States, as stated by the CDC. Heart disease has even outpaced breast cancer as the most deadly disease for women. Cigarette smoking constricts blood vessels, and fat already floating around in the bloodstream starts building up in vessel-blocking plaque deposits. When a blockage occurs, a heart attack or cardiac arrest may result. Unfortunately, heart disease does not manifest many symptoms in its early stages. Chest pain or mild pressure or tightness in the chest may occur first. Suddenly, a person cannot tolerate activity well or she simply feels a constant state of tiredness. Chest pain may occur with exertion and then resolve with rest. If any of these symptoms occur, consult your doctor.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Smoking and Tobacco Use
- American Cancer Society: Smoking Costs
- "Pathophysiology: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses"; Lippincott Williams & Watkins; 2005
- "Complete Guide to Symptoms and Remedies"; Johns Hopkins, 2004
- SEER Stat Fact Sheets: Lung Cancer
