Smoking in all its forms—whether traditional cigarettes, e-cigarettes, hookah (shisha), chewing tobacco, or heated tobacco—carries significant health risks. Some of these risks may appear in the short term, but most worsen over the long term.
1. General risks of smoking
Increased risk of cancer
Lung cancer is most common among smokers, but there are other types linked to smoking, such as cancer of the mouth, throat, esophagus, bladder, pancreas, and kidneys.
Cardiovascular diseases
Narrowing of the arteries, increased blood pressure, poor blood flow, which raises the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes.
Respiratory problems
Chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and increased likelihood of asthma or respiratory irritation.
Weakened immunity
Smoking reduces the body’s ability to fight infection and heal wounds.
Negative impact on reproductive health
In men: erectile dysfunction and reduced sperm quality.
Chronic diseases that can lead to disability or premature death.
High costs of treatment and healthcare.
Bad breath, yellowing of teeth and nails.
Decreased ability to exercise or exert oneself physically.
Increased heart rate and blood pressure.
General fatigue and persistent coughing. Deterioration in quality of life with advancing age.
In women: difficulty conceiving, increased risk of miscarriage or premature birth.
2. Risks of different types
Type Most significant risks Traditional cigarettes The largest source of carcinogenic chemicals, containing more than 7,000 chemicals, at least 70 of which are carcinogenic. Shisha Some may believe it is less harmful, but one session can be equivalent to smoking dozens of cigarettes, with a greater risk of infection due to the sharing of the hose. Heated tobacco Less smoke production, but still contains nicotine and toxic substances that damage the heart and lungs. Electronic cigarettes They lack some of the substances produced by combustion, but they contain nicotine and chemicals that can irritate the lungs and affect the heart. Smokeless tobacco (chewing or sniffing) Increases the risk of cancer of the mouth, gums, and esophagus, and causes gum problems and tooth loss. 3. Short-term effects of smoking
Bad breath, yellowing of teeth and nails.
Decreased ability to exercise or exert oneself physically.
Increased heart rate and blood pressure.
General fatigue and persistent cough.
4. Long-term effects of smoking
No type of smoking is completely safe; even e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products still carry clear risks. Quitting smoking at any stage significantly reduces the risks and improves overall health.
No type of smoking is completely safe; even e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products still carry clear risks. Quitting smoking at any stage significantly reduces the risks and improves overall health.
