Why is smoking bad for your health?

Why smoking is bad: the damages associated with active and passive smoking and excessive tobacco consumption.

World No Tobacco Day, celebrated on 31 May each year, is an opportunity to raise public awareness of the serious health consequences of tobacco consumption and thus promote a smoke-free lifestyle. This day is organized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and aims to highlight the risks associated with smoking and to encourage people around the world to stop smoking. In fact, it is not enough to say that smoking is bad. We also need to understand why it hurts, what are the damages associated with both active and passive smoking.

This day represents an important moment to reflect on the negative impact of tobacco on individual and collective health and to promote an alternative lifestyle. Supporting this day can help create a more conscious and engaged society in the fight against smoking, encouraging people to make decisions that favor their health and well-being.

What is smoking bad for?

Smoking is bad because smoke contains over seventy carcinogens that can cause serious diseases such as lung, mouth, throat and bladder cancer, but also heart disease, stroke, chronic bronchitis, emphysema and numerous other health problems. In addition, cigarette smoke contains nicotine, an addictive substance that can make it difficult to quit smoking.

Smoking is a leading cause of disease and mortality worldwide. Among the damages it can cause and which are often underestimated, it is also worth mentioning the damage to reproductive health. Smoking increases the risk of infertility , pregnancy complications and fetal problems.

The damage of smoking to skin and teeth

Cigarettes can also cause damage to the skin and teeth for several reasons. In particular, smoking contains harmful chemicals, such as nicotine, which can constrict blood vessels and reduce the flow of blood and oxygen to the skin and body tissues, thereby affecting their health and vitality. This can lead to a variety of cosmetic problems , such as wrinkles, blemishes, discolouration, excessive dryness and loss of skin elasticity. As for the teeth, it can cause the formation of plaque , with consequences such as tooth decay, gingivitis, periodontitis and tooth loss. Smoking can also cause yellowing of the teeth and a bad breath problem.

What are the harms of passive smoking?

Secondhand smoke refers to the harmful chemicals people inhale when they are exposed to the smoke emitted by smokers. The harms of secondhand smoke include an increased risk of heart disease , respiratory problems, and lung cancer. Additionally, exposure to secondhand smoke can cause asthma, ear infections, dental problems, and behavioral problems in children.

Pregnant women exposed to secondhand smoke may be at increased risk of premature birth, miscarriage, stillbirth, and low birth weight. In general, avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke is important for protecting one's health and reducing the harms of smoking on society.