Smoking continues to be one of the leading causes of disease and death worldwide due to the numerous complications that arise from tobacco use. It has been shown to cause cancer, heart disease, stroke, and multiple lung diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. Beyond the personal consequences of smoking, secondhand smoke contributes to disease and death in non-smokers. So, when you pick up that cigarette, you are not only bringing harm to yourself but also to those around you. Why should you stop smoking? Let’s dive into the medical consequences associated with smoking.
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Smoking can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off cancer-forming cells. Also, tobacco is composed of chemicals that alter cellular DNA, thus allowing the damaged cells to regenerate at an accelerated rate. This process can lead to the growth of cancerous cells.
Tobacco use causes thinning and weakening of blood vessel walls, a decrease in good cholesterol, and leads to plaque build-up in the blood vessels. Plaque is composed of fat and cholesterol. All of these factors increase the risk of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and stroke.
Underneath the umbrella of COPD lies two sub-categories: chronic bronchitis and emphysema. COPD is characterized by a persistent cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, and wheezing. Tobacco use causes widespread destruction of the lungs by creating narrow airways due to tar build-up from tobacco, decreased elasticity of the lungs preventing the ability to take deep breaths, and damage to the air pockets in the lungs. In addition to these issues, the persistent inflammation of the lungs creates the perfect storm leading to the disease process known as COPD.
Despite the difficulty of quitting, it is of utmost importance to utilize every option available to you to break the chain of addiction. Beyond the health ramifications due to smoking, quality of life can be significantly affected causing substantial strain on relationships, work-life, and home-life due to the unhealthy habit. To take that next step towards smoking cessation, come back tomorrow to read about the options available to assist you on this endeavor.
Shifa4U is available to help you reach your health goals, including helping you along in your journey to ditch your smoking habit. Shifa4U is providing best rehabilitation and de-addiction services in Pakistan. Get more info by calling us on 042-111-748-748 or contact us on whatsapp 03247443248 today.