Using tobacco is dangerous and kills approximately 5 million people each year, which is more than tuberculosis and malaria combined, notes the World Health Organization. Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. Men, women and youths who smoke, along with anyone exposed to secondhand smoke, are at risk of suffering from these conditions. Quitting smoking and staying away from secondhand smoke are the only ways to minimize the risk of these dangers.
Universal Dangers
With approximately 430,000 people dying from smoking in America annually, smoking accounts for about 20 percent of deaths, notes the American Lung Association in Washington. Smoking is directly related to some cancers, including lung cancer and acute myeloid leukemia. It can also increase your risk of developing emphysema, asthma, cataracts and pneumonia.
Dangers for Women
More women die annually of lung cancer than breast cancer, according to the American Lung Association. Smoking can also lead to cervical cancer. A pregnant woman who smokes may go into premature labor or give birth to a low birth weight or stillborn baby. The incidence of chronic bronchitis and emphysema are increased in females who smoke as compared to non-smokers. An increased risk of hip fractures and postmenopausal low bone density are associated with women who smoke, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Dangers for Men
Smoking is the number one cause of cancer-related deaths in men, according to the American Lung Association. A man who smokes is 23 times more likely to get lung cancer than a man who doesn't smoke. Smoking can also lead to erectile dysfunction in men.
Dangers for Children
Infants exposed to cigarette smoke are at an increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome. Children exposed to cigarette smoke are more likely to suffer from asthma, ear infections and lung infections. Youths who smoke may go on to use stronger drugs, including marijuana and alcohol, according to the American Lung Association.
Secondhand Smoke Dangers
Secondhand smoke, which is a combination of smoke exhaled from the smoker's mouth and smoke from the end of the cigarette, contains over 4,000 chemical compounds --- at least 60 of which are carcinogens. Chest discomfort, coughing and decreased lung function are some dangers of being exposed to secondhand smoke. Other problems can also occur. For example, the American Cancer Society notes that second-hand smoke is responsible for approximately 3,400 lung cancer deaths in non-smokers each year, and each year approximately 46,000 non-smokers who live with smokers die from secondhand smoke-related heart disease.
References
- World Health Organization: 10 Facts on Secondhand Smoke
- American Lung Association in Washington: Facts About Smoking
- National Cancer Institute: Harms of Smoking and Health Benefits of Quitting
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Smoking and Tobacco Use
- American Cancer Society: Secondhand Smoke
