There is strong evidence that smoking is related to more than two-dozen diseases and conditions. Many organs and body systems are adversely affected by tobacco smoke. Fortunately, most of this starts to reverse after a smoker quits smoking.
All smokers are at extra risk for:
- Coronary heart disease (e.g., heart attacks)
- Peripheral vascular disease (circulatory problems)
- Aortic aneurysm
- High cholesterol (LDL)
- Lung cancer
- Cancer of the mouth, throat and voice box
- Cancer of the pancreas
- Cancer of the kidney, and urinary bladde
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Chronic bronchitis
- Emphysema
- Pneumonia
- Influenza (the “flu”)
- The common cold
- Peptic ulcers
- Chronic bowel disease (Crohn’s disease)
- Tooth decay (cavities)
- Gum disease
- Osteoporosis
Sleep problems (falling asleep inappropriately and/or frequent waking)