Smoking is a habit that is very difficult for many to quit, but knowing the health risks of smoking may convince you to quit. Some of the health risks associated with smoking may be more widely known than others. Inform yourself about the risks of first and second-hand smoke so that you can make wiser choices for yourself and your loved ones.
Health Risk Statistics
Smoking causes between 80 to 90 percent of deaths associated with lung cancers for men and women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, and approximately 90 percent of deaths caused by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, also known as COPD. Smoking can also raise your chances of contracting some form of coronary artery disease or suffering a stroke.
Fertility
Men and women should realize that smoking decreases fertility, according to Baby Hopes. Smoking decreases sperm count and motility in men, which may reduce chances of successfully conceiving a child. For women, smoking may cause a decrease in hormone estrogens the body produces that enhance fertility and conception. Smoking may also destroy healthy eggs before they reach their full maturity in the ovaries and cause some genetic complications as well as affect the embryo's ability to properly attach to the walls of the uterus.
Premature Infants
Smoking may lead to low birth-weight babies, according to the CDC and may increase an infant's risk of sudden infant death syndrome, known as SIDS. Smoking during pregnancy has long been link to increased cases of SIDS death, suggests the Dr. Ronald Ariagano of the Stanford Medical School Department of Pediatrics, writing for SIDS network.
Digestion Issues
Smoking can lead to digestive issues, according to Drugs.com, which may include peptic ulcers. Smoking is believed to increase the level of acids in the stomach, leading to development of stomach ulcers. Smokers may also experience gastroesophageal reflux, known as GERD, which may cause pain and discomfort not only in the stomach, but through the esophagus and throat.
Accelerated Aging
Smoking may cause wrinkles around the lips and mouth and age the skin, states SkinCarePhysicians.com. Smoking is believed to create a variety of chemical changes within the body that can accelerate aging. Deep wrinkles and leathery skin texture may be visible on those who smoke about 10 cigarettes a day for about a decade. Some individuals may display a yellowish tint on their skin caused by smoking.
