By Hannah Evans, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine of Northwest Ohio
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of disease and death in the United States. There are more than 16 million Americans living with a disease caused by smoking. Cigarettes contain several ingredients and, when burned, create smoke that contains thousands of chemicals, some of which are known cancer-causing agents. Those who smoke are at risk of developing disease and dying from smoking-related illnesses.
Potential Risks of Tobacco Use
Smoking can cause harm to nearly every organ of the body. Regardless of one’s age, gender, race, or ethnicity, tobacco use can increase the risk of premature death. Cardiovascular (heart) disease, cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are the three major causes of smoking-related death. There are 12 different cancers linked to tobacco use, including but not limited to lung cancer, colon and rectum cancer, and mouth and throat cancer. Other health consequences from smoking include poor reproductive health and decreased immune function, as well as increased risk of developing cataracts, type 2 diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, and periodontal disease.
