Cigarettes contain more than 60 known carcinogens, according to the American Cancer Society. Thus, cancer is a side effect of smoking cigarettes. Cigarettes are also addictive and expensive. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) note that smoking cigarettes harms almost every organ in the body. "Smoking causes about 90 percent of lung cancer deaths in men and almost 80 percent of lung cancer deaths in women," according to the CDC.
Heart Disease
Cigarette smoking damages the arteries in the body and can lead to heart disease. The CDC notes that coronary heart disease is the number one cause of death in America. Health Literacy states that "smoking increases the risk of dying of a heart attack by 60 percent."
Respiratory Problems
Smoking cigarettes causes respiratory problems, including bronchitis and pneumonia, according to the American Cancer Society. Cigarettes cause coughing and wheezing and impair the overall function of the respiratory system.
Miscarriage, Premature Birth, Infertility
The side effects of smoking cigarettes while pregnant may include miscarriage. Nicotine damages the mother's health and impacts the health of her unborn child. The American Cancer Society warns that smoking is hazardous to a successful pregnancy. The CDC also notes that smoking may cause infertility and premature birth.
Nicotine Addiction
Another side effect of cigarettes includes physical and emotional addiction to smoking, according to the American Cancer Society. The chemicals in cigarettes cause the body and mind to crave them, making it difficult to stop smoking.
Budget Problems
Another side effect of cigarettes is impact on one's budget. The cost of cigarettes is ever increasing. Smoking is expensive. Cancer treatment for illnesses linked to smoking is also very expensive.
