SMOKING.......JUST THE FACTS

• Smoking weakens the immune system by inhibiting cellular immunity.
• Tobacco smoke contains carbon monoxide, a substance that is toxic to the brain.
• Tobacco smoking is associated with a higher incidence of gingivitis and tooth loss.
• Tobacco smoke contains cadmium, a heavy metal that can cause high blood pressure, kidney stones, and other toxic symptoms.
• Tobacco smoke induces the formation of free radicals - highly reactive molecules that can bind to normal, healthy cells and destroy them.
• Smokers have a higher incidence of peptic ulcer disease, a decreased response to anti-ulcer medications, and a higher mortality from peptic ulcer.
• Female smokers are at higher risk of developing osteoporosis.
• Female smokers are at higher risk for premature menopause.
• Smoking accelerates skin aging and wrinkle formation.
• Smoking causes a decrease in penile blood flow and can cause impotence in males.
• Smokers have a three to five-fold increase in coronary artery disease compared to non-smokers.
• Smoking is associated with the development of urinary tract cancer, bowel cancer, pancreatic cancer, cervical and uterine cancer - and yes, lung cancer.
• Smoking is a potent risk factor for atherosclerosis.
• 40% of heavy smokers die before they reach retirement age.
• Nicotine causes adrenaline release, which can cause anxiety, heart palpitations, diarrhea, and high blood pressure.
• Hydrogen cyanide, a chemical in tobacco smoke, causes inflammation of the bronchi which leads to bronchitis. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphysema often eventually result.
• The adrenal stimulation caused by nicotine can aggravate hypoglycemia. Eventually, adrenal exhaustion results.
• The American Lung Association reports that 350,000 Americans die each year from cigarette smoking. This is more than the combined deaths from illegal drugs, traffic accidents, suicide, homicide, and alcohol.

Don’t Kid Yourself.
Smoking tobacco is incompatible with a healthy lifestyle.