Among other side effects, smoking does cause blood vessels to constrict. This can lead to sometimes life-threatening events like a heart attack or stroke. Smoking is linked to a wide range of negative health effects, including heart disease. The chemicals in cigarette smoke irritate blood vessels, causing inflammation and swelling. Quitting smoking allows your heart…
Those who smoke are much more likely to develop symptoms of COPD, but secondhand smoke can also be the cause. Treatments are available; in some cases, your lung tissue can regenerate. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the name for a group of diseases that impact the health of your lungs and your ability to breathe….
National study shows cancer centers help patients stop smoking A nationwide team studied 44,000 smokers at 28 cancer centers. The researchers learned that if they could get those patients into evidence-based therapy — such as nicotine replacement, counseling, or both — they could help nearly one in five kick the habit and, in doing so,…
A new report states that teens in the United States are smoking and drinking less as well as using fewer drugs. However, it also reports that teens are vaping more and using cannabis more often. Experts say social engagement and structured activities such as sports and music programs can be strong predictors of teen substance…
Studies have shown that women have a harder time quitting smoking than men do. New research indicates that nicotine blocks the production of estrogen in women’s brains, which could explain why it’s more difficult for them to quit. While more research is needed to fully understand the underlying mechanisms, the findings suggest that nicotine may…
A new trend is emerging in the vaping world, one that promises big health benefits. Known as “wellness vapes”, they contain vitamins or other supplements instead of nicotine and tout claims of boosted energy, increased immunity and a better night’s sleep. Wellness vapes or “nutritional supplement diffusers” – which allow users to inhale ingredients such…
Tobacco ads on television have been banned since 1971. Advertisements on billboards paid brand product placement, cartoons, tobacco brand sponsorships of sporting events and concerts, and advertising and marketing practices targeting individuals under 18 have been illegal since 1998. Yet, kids keep seeing tobacco and e-cigarette ads anyway. In 2020, 79 percent of teenagers reported exposure to tobacco…
Quit smoking after a heart attack or bypass surgery, or go on 3 different medications? You may see the same longevity benefits if you just quit, scientists say. Smokers who give up cigarettes after a heart attack, bypass surgery, or procedures to unclog blocked arteries may add almost five healthy years to their lives, a…