Despite ongoing education efforts regarding the risks of cigarettes, smoking remains a widespread habit. According to the American Cancer Society, roughly 46 million adults currently smoke cigarettes. In addition to disadvantages such as the odor and increasing social stigma, smoking presents significant physical dangers to both you and those around you.
Cancer
One of most serious and widely publicized dangers of smoking is the increased risk of cancer. The National Cancer Institute links smoking to cancers of the lungs, mouth, voice box and throat, as well as numerous other organs. Even though quitting significantly reduces the risk of developing cancer, the risk remains higher than in individuals who have never smoked.
Lung Disease
Smoking is especially damaging to the lungs. Smokers increase their risk of emphysema, a deterioration of the bronchioles that allow oxygen into the bloodstream. Additionally, smokers suffer increased incidence of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Heart Disease
The American Heart Association warns that smoking raises LDL cholesterol, which increases the risk of coronary artery blockage. Additionally, the nicotine in cigarette smoke is a stimulant, which raises heart rate and blood pressure. The combination of coronary artery blockage and high blood pressure is a dangerous combination which often leads to cardiac arrest.
Dental Health
Cigarette smoke acts as a vasoconstrictor, limiting circulation to your gums. Over time, chronically limiting blood flow to the gums may result in tooth loss. Smoking also stains the teeth and causes halitosis.
Addiction
Cigarette smoke contains nicotine, a highly addictive drug. The longer you smoke, the more difficult it is to manage cravings when you attempt to quit. Because smoking is common in social situations, former smokers face more frequent temptation than those addicted to illegal drugs.
Second-Hand Smoke
Not only does smoking raise your risk of numerous dangerous conditions, it also puts those around you at risk. When you smoke around others, they are breathing the same dangerous compounds you are. The American Cancer Society estimates 46,000 non-smokers lose their lives each year to illnesses brought on by second-hand smoke.
