Smoking affects practically every organ in the body negatively

  

 Smoking affects practically every organ in the body negatively. These are the physical effects of smoking. The latest research suggests that fewer people might be quitting smoking due to their remote work setups during the pandemic. Dr. Sarah Jackson, the lead author from UCL, emphasized the urgent need for significant policy changes in response to these findings.

Here's a breakdown of how smoking can impact various parts of your body:

Cardiovascular System

Dr. Suhail Hussain, a private GP in Hertfordshire, highlighted that smoking can elevate blood pressure, harm blood vessels, and escalate the risk of heart diseases, strokes, and heart attacks. He explained that it could lead to arterial plaque formation, which restricts blood flow, posing a severe risk if clots form.

Professor Mark Whiteley, a renowned venous surgeon and the founder of The Whiteley Clinic, emphasized that both cigarettes and vaping can constrict blood vessels when nicotine is inhaled. This constriction hampers the natural relaxation of arteries and veins, hindering smooth blood circulation.

Jim Pattison, a policy assistant at Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), underlined that smoking is the primary behavioral risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Smokers face a significantly higher fourfold risk of CVD compared to non-smokers.

Lungs

Pattison also noted that tobacco smoke can lead to various respiratory illnesses, including lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is also a known trigger for asthma symptoms and can increase the risk of asthma, tuberculosis (TB), and pneumonia. Smoking damages lung alveoli, impairing oxygen intake and causing breathlessness. In 2017, 37% of respiratory disease-related deaths in England were attributed to smoking.

Reproductive System

Dr. Anita Raja, an NHS GP in Birmingham, highlighted that smoking can impact fertility in both men and women. In women, it can reduce fertility, cause ectopic pregnancies, and lead to complications during pregnancy. In men, smoking can result in erectile dysfunction and lower sperm count.

Bones

Raja mentioned that smoking can weaken bones, making them more susceptible to fractures and osteoporosis.

Brain

Abbas Kanani, a pharmacist at Chemist Click, stated that smoking accelerates brain aging and is associated with a higher risk of cognitive decline and dementia in older adults. Metals found in cigarette smoke, such as zinc, iron, and copper, can accumulate in the body, potentially impairing cognitive function. Research also indicates a decrease in brain volume due to smoking.

Skin

Kanani explained that smoking is linked to premature skin aging, delayed wound healing, and increased infections. Smoking deprives the skin of oxygen and nutrients, reducing blood flow to the face, which affects skin health.

Mouth and Teeth

Smoking is associated with poor oral health, causing teeth staining, and gum erosion, and contributing to oral cancer cases, leading to severe disfigurement.

Eyes

Pattison warned that tobacco smoke contains harmful chemicals that can cause significant eye damage with prolonged exposure. It increases the risk of conditions like age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy.