Tobaccoharm

Tobaccoharm refers to the detrimental health effects associated with the use of tobacco products. These products, most commonly cigarettes, but also including cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, and snuff, contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance, and a cocktail of thousands of chemicals, many of which are toxic and carcinogenic.

The health consequences of tobacco use are extensive and affect nearly every organ system in the body. It is a leading cause of preventable death worldwide. Major health risks include various forms of cancer, such as lung, throat, mouth, bladder, and pancreatic cancer. Respiratory diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and chronic bronchitis are also strongly linked to smoking.

Cardiovascular diseases, including heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease, are significantly exacerbated by tobacco use due to its impact on blood vessels and circulation. Tobacco use during pregnancy can lead to adverse outcomes for both the mother and the fetus, including premature birth, low birth weight, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Beyond the direct user, secondhand smoke, the inhalation of smoke from burning tobacco products or exhaled by smokers, poses significant health risks to non-smokers, contributing to lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory problems in children and adults. Quitting tobacco use is one of the most effective steps individuals can take to improve their health and reduce their risk of developing these serious conditions.