Use of tobacco products
Tobacco smoking is another lifestyle risk factor, as it is a common cause of premature disease and death. The substances in tobacco products are also carcinogenic.
The nicotine in cigarettes is absorbed into the blood very quickly and reaches the brain within 7 seconds of inhalation. It is an addictive substance which can develop into dependency. Nicotine speeds up the heart rate, increases blood pressure, and causes the blood vessels to constrict. Smoking is a risk factor for myocardial infarction, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease.
The tar from tobacco smoke also settles in the lungs and can contribute to lung cancer. Cigarette smoke is a complex carcinogen and thus contributes to cancer in other organs - oral cavity, larynx, esophagus, pancreas, bladder, cervix, kidney, etc. Cigarette smoke also causes inflammatory changes in the lining of the bronchial tubes, leading to chronic bronchitis.
Even passive smoking is bad for your health. The harmful substances from cigarettes are irritating and can cause inflammation of the respiratory tract (coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, burning eyes, congestion). Children are most at risk from passive smoking.