What are long term effects of smoking?

The long-term effects of smoking are extensive and can impact nearly every organ in the body. Here are some of the most significant long-term health consequences:

1. Respiratory Diseases:
   • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): This includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, which cause long-term damage to the lungs and airways.
   • Lung Cancer: Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, with a significant percentage of cases attributed directly to tobacco use.
   • Respiratory Infections: Smokers are more susceptible to infections like pneumonia and tuberculosis.
2. Cardiovascular Diseases:
   • Heart Disease: Smoking damages the lining of the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries), which can result in heart attacks and strokes.
   • Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): This condition involves the narrowing of the peripheral arteries, often leading to reduced blood flow to the limbs.
3. Cancer:
   • Besides lung cancer, smoking increases the risk of cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, pancreas, bladder, kidney, liver, stomach, cervix, and some forms of leukemia.
4. Reproductive and Sexual Health:
   • Reduced Fertility: Smoking can affect fertility in both men and women.
   • Pregnancy Complications: Smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, low birth weight, and birth defects.
5. Gastrointestinal Issues:
   • Peptic Ulcer Disease: Smoking increases the risk of developing ulcers in the stomach and small intestine.
   • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Smoking can exacerbate GERD symptoms.
6. Immune System Effects:
   • Weakened Immune System: Smokers are more susceptible to infections and have a harder time recovering from illnesses.
7. Oral Health:
   • Gum Disease: Smoking contributes to gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss.
   • Oral Cancer: Increased risk of cancers of the mouth, lips, and tongue.
8. Skin and Aging:
   • Premature Aging: Smoking accelerates the aging of the skin, leading to wrinkles and a dull complexion.
   • Poor Wound Healing: Reduced blood flow impairs the body’s ability to heal wounds.
9. Bone Health:
   • Osteoporosis: Smoking weakens bones, increasing the risk of fractures.
10. Mental Health:
    • Cognitive Decline: Long-term smoking is associated with an increased risk of dementia and cognitive decline.
    • Depression and Anxiety: Smokers are more likely to experience mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
11. Vision Problems:
    • Cataracts: Smoking increases the risk of developing cataracts, a clouding of the lens in the eye.
    • Macular Degeneration: This condition affects the retina and can lead to blindness.