New Delhi: Tobacco is a substance containing 70 known carcinogens and is strongly associated with cancer because it damages DNA, leading to cancer formation. Major carcinogens are Benzene, Formaldehyde, Arsenic, Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and Nitrosamines. These chemicals can directly damage DNA, interfere with cell repair, and promote abnormal cell growth. Dr. Dinesh Singh, Director and Head, Radiation Oncology, Action Cancer Hospital, Delhi, explained how smoking is one of the worst carcinogens in the world.
Various types of cancer are linked to tobacco, either from direct exposure to tobacco or it is absorbed into the body and gets circulated in the blood and is then out through urine and stool, thus exposing the entire body to tobacco. Lung cancer (85–90% of cases are due to smoking). Throat and mouth cancers, Esophageal or food pipe cancer. Laryngeal cancer. Pancreatic cancer. Bladder cancer. Kidney cancer. Stomach cancer. Cervical cancer. Colorectal cancer. Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML).
Second-hand smoke is also very dangerous.
Even non-smokers exposed to second-hand smoke can absorb carcinogens and have increased cancer risk, especially for lung cancer.
Tobacco and Inflammation
Tobacco smoke also promotes chronic inflammation, which creates an environment that encourages cell proliferation and genetic instability, both of which support cancer development. Many other diseases are also caused by tobacco use. It affects nearly every organ in the body.
Respiratory Diseases
Tobacco smoke damages the airways and lungs, leading to:
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Cardiovascular Diseases: Smoking harms the heart and blood vessels
- Damaging the lining of arteries increases clot formation, raising blood pressure and heart rate. This leads to: Coronary heart disease (heart attacks)
- Stroke, Increased risk of dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease
Reproductive and Pregnancy Issues
Infertility (in both men and women), Erectile dysfunction, pregnancy complications such as Miscarriage, Stillbirth, Low birth weight, Preterm birth, and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
Oral Health Problems
- Gum disease (periodontitis), Tooth loss, and delayed healing after dental procedures.
- Immune System Suppression: Weakened immune response, making smokers more vulnerable to infections, and Slower wound healing.
- Other Diseases and Conditions: Type 2 diabetes (smoking increases insulin resistance), Rheumatoid arthritis,
- Peptic ulcers, Vision problems (cataracts, macular degeneration), Osteoporosis (bone loss).
Secondhand Smoke Effects
Even non-smokers exposed to tobacco smoke are at risk of:
- Lung cancer
- Heart disease
- Respiratory infections in children
- Asthma attacks
- Ear infections in children
Summary
Think of a disease, and you will find an association with tobacco. Tobacco is a leading preventable cause of death and disease worldwide. It contributes to over a million deaths in India. It also causes a lack of cases of chronic illness and disability
Various types of cancer are linked to tobacco, either from direct exposure to tobacco or it is absorbed into the body and gets circulated in the blood and is then out through urine and stool, thus exposing the entire body to tobacco. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
