The number of premature deaths caused annually by smoking is more than the total amount of deaths from murders, suicides, car accidents, drugs or alcohol and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) combined, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The National Cancer Institute (NCI) estimates that an average of 438,000 premature deaths in the United States are caused each year by smoking. Of these premature deaths, 25 percent are caused from lung disease, 35 percent are caused from heart disease and strokes and the remaining 40 percent are from various types of cancers. Smokers who educate themselves about the major health risks of smoking are taking the first step toward quitting a deadly habit.
Cancer
The Mayo Clinic states that smoking causes the majority of lung cancers, both in smokers and people exposed to secondhand smoke. Although lung cancer is the most common type of tobacco-related cancer, many other cancers can also be caused by smoking. Smokers have a greater risk of getting cancers of the esophagus, larynx, bladder, stomach, mouth, throat, cervix and kidney, as well as acute myeloid leukemia, according to the NCI.
Heart Disease
Smoking causes the blood vessels to narrow and reduces blood circulation. This puts smokers at risk for developing peripheral vascular disease, a blockage of the arteries in the arms or legs, and coronary heart disease, according to the CDC. Smoking also increases the risk of developing blood clots, including those that cause strokes, and might also increase blood pressure and overall heart rate.
Lung Disease
The chemicals inside cigarettes can damage and blacken cilia, the tiny hairs that line the lungs. This can cause many lung diseases such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema, and can make asthma worse, as well, warns the website Drugs.com.
Other Risks
Although cancer, heart disease and lung disease are the health risks that cause premature death in smokers, there are also many other unpleasant but non-fatal health risks. Gastrointestinal diseases, including peptic ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux or diverticulitis, can be caused by smoking. The website HealthCentral.com states that both males and females could have fertility issues due to smoking. Males can have a lower sex drive, impaired sperm or become impotent, while females might be at an increased risk for ectopic pregnancies, miscarriages and early onset of menopause. In addition, smokers could have an increased risk of bone fractures, diabetes and thyroid disease. Smokers may also have a more difficult time recovering from surgery.
