Smoking Harms: Long-Term Health Risks from Cigarettes, Hookah, Bidi, and Ganja

Whether it's cigarettes, bidi, hookah, ganja, or charas, all forms of smoking slowly damage the body and increase the risk of serious illnesses. According to Dr. Imran Ahmed, tobacco smoke contains thousands of harmful chemicals that immediately and gradually impact your health. The consequences range from short-term effects to chronic, life-threatening conditions.

Increased Risk of Cancer

Smoking is a major contributor to various types of cancer. The toxic substances in tobacco can affect multiple organs.
Here are some common cancers linked to smoking:

Lung cancer

Oral cancer

Liver and pancreatic cancer

Stomach and cervical cancer

Bladder cancer

Leukemia

These cancers often lead to severe complications and can result in painful outcomes.

Lung Damage and Respiratory Illnesses

Smoke inhalation leads to increased mucus production due to goblet cell stimulation.
Common lung-related issues caused by smoking include:

Persistent dry cough

Chronic airway irritation

Damage to alveoli (air sacs)

Increased risk of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and emphysema

Moreover, harmful smoke particles can enter the bloodstream, damaging blood vessel linings. This raises the chances of blood clots, atherosclerosis, and heart attacks.

Smoking Increases Stress, Not Reduces It

Contrary to popular belief, smoking does not relieve stress.
Non-smokers generally experience lower stress levels.
Here’s how nicotine affects your brain:

Initially boosts dopamine transmission, creating a temporary feeling of pleasure.

Followed by a dopamine drop, leading to withdrawal and a craving for more.

This cycle increases dependency and heightens mental stress over time.

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