The benefits of not smoking and taking steps to stop smoking are very well known. Many studies have been conducted over the years to show the many positive results that this lifestyle can produce. Smoking cessation can drastically reduce the number and frequency of tooth cavities and also assists in removing toxins from the body that can contribute to cancer. The American Cancer Society notes that most lung diseases are directly associated with exposure to second-hand smoke. It is the second-hand smoke that poses the greatest threat to your health and there are specific steps that you can take to decrease this risk.
As previously mentioned, one of the first benefits of refraining from smoking is an overall reduction in diseases and illnesses. Smokers are four times more likely to develop gum disease, and a recent study revealed that this risk factor can be completely eliminated by simply stopping smoking. In addition, smokers are two to three times more likely to develop lung cancer and are at much greater risk of developing throat cancer as well. Smokers are also three times more likely to develop heart disease, stroke, and certain forms of cancer. The lungs also have the highest instances of cancer in the body, which is especially troubling for many pregnant women who are very concerned about their babies’ health.
The American Heart Association notes that a report co-sponsored by the American Cancer Society found that women who breastfeed had a significantly reduced risk of developing certain types of cancer. Mothers who breastfeed also had a decreased risk of suffering from depression and other emotional disorders.
Another study discovered that women who refrained from smoking were more likely to be physically active as well.
- Smokers who suffer from heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure are at greater risk of developing complications if they do not quit.
- In addition, tobacco users are twice as likely to suffer from dental complications. Smokers have a higher incident of tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease.
- They are also at greater risk of developing bone and joint pain and osteoporosis.
This is especially true for white women, who are five times more likely to suffer from bone deterioration due to smoking than women of other ethnic groups.
When it comes to an individual’s health, smoking has been linked to a variety of serious illnesses and diseases. Smoking is a contributing factor to the development of Lung Cancer and emphysema. Both these types of cancers can lead to death if treatment is not sought early enough. Asbestos is yet another significant cause of lung cancer, and second-hand smoke can cause many other respiratory problems. The smoke from cigars causes many other ailments, such as mouth cancer, sinusitis, and asthma. Quitting smoking will significantly benefit an individual’s overall health and quality of life.
