Facts about the Harmful Effects of Smoking

Smoking is the most important preventable cause of premature death in the United States. There are 4,000 chemical components found in cigarettes and at least 250 of them are harmful to human health. Smokers have a higher risk of developing many chronic disorders, including atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can lead to coronary heart disease, heart attack and stroke. Controlling or reversing atherosclerosis is an important part of preventing future heart attack or stroke.

Risks of smoking

You probably know smoking is bad for you, but do you realize exactly how dangerous it is? Even nonsmokers who are exposed to secondhand smoke at home or at work increase their risk of developing heart disease by 25–30 percent. And, contrary to popular belief, cigars and pipes aren’t safer alternatives.

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It’s important to understand your risks, but there’s a lot more to quitting than frightening statistics. Your journey to smoke-free living will help you turn your life around in many positive ways.