A Key Factor In Preventing Chronic Disease
Smoking is one of the main causes of preventable death in the US. Every year, about 1 in 5 people die as a result of cigarette smoking. Cigarette use affects every part of a person’s health, including fertility, heart health, and bone health. Luckily, quitting smoking has immediate positive effects and can help prevent the formation or progression of major chronic diseases.
Double chances of getting pregnant
Cigarette use is directly linked to fertility problems in both men and women. In men, smoking decreases sperm count and motility. In women, smoking speeds up the loss of eggs and can even cause women to go into menopause 1-4 years sooner. Research has shown that women who quit smoking can double the chances of becoming pregnant. After quitting the habit, both men and women can expect to see an improvement in fertility within 3 months.
Remove this major risk factor
Heart disease is the number one cause of death in both men and women in the US. Smoking is a major controllable risk factor for heart conditions. In fact, people who smoke are 2-4 times more likely to get heart disease than people who do not. The activity increases people’s risk of heart disease by increasing inflammation, increasing blood pressure, disrupting normal heart rhythm, damaging blood vessel walls, and raising bad cholesterol while lowering good cholesterol.
Reduce the risk of bone loss
Smoking has been shown to have a direct impact on osteoporosis risk. The activity decreases bone density and increases the risk for fracture. Additionally, many people who are smokers tend to have other risk factors for osteoporosis, such as being thinner, drinking more alcohol, or going into menopause earlier. Research has also shown that tobacco use can decrease bone healing after a fracture.
Ready to quit?
Quitting any addiction is a challenge. The support of family, friends, and a healthcare provider can all help. Ask for support in advance and make a list of alternate strategies for stress relief. Additionally, identify all triggers that make smoking tempting and make efforts to remove these. Speak with a healthcare provider for help in developing a strategy to quit smoking and improve fertility, heart health, and bone health.