Negative Effects of Smoking

Acute risks:

• Shortness of breath
• Exacerbation of asthma
• Harm to pregnancy
• Impotency
• Infertility
• Increased serum carbon monoxide levels

Long-term risks:

• Myocardial infarction and strokes
• Lung and other cancers
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphysema
• osteoporosis
• Long-term disability and need for extended care

Environmental risks:

• Increased risk of lung cancer and heart disease in partners
• Higher rates of smoking by children of tobacco users
• Increased risk of low birth weight, SIDS, asthma, middle ear disease, and respiratory infections in children of smokers

(Fiore et al. 2008; USDHHS 2004)

References:

Fiore MC, Jaen CR, Baker TB, et al. Treating Tobacco Use and Dependence: 2008 Update. Clinical Practice Guideline. Rockville, MD: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Public Health Service. May 2008.

US Dept of Health and Human Services. The Health Consequences of Smoking: A Report of the Surgeon General. Office on Smoking and Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, US Dept of Health and Human Services. 2004. Available at: http://www.surgeongeneral.gov/library/smokingconsequences Accessed on: 2004-12-17.