Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), encompassing heart disease and stroke, afflict millions worldwide. The primary culprit among heart conditions in the United States is coronary heart disease, colloquially known as coronary artery disease. This condition entails the gradual narrowing of blood vessels responsible for transporting blood to the heart. A stroke happens when the blood flow to the brain is obstructed or when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, resulting in the death of brain tissue. This can lead to disabilities such as paralysis, muscle weakness, difficulty speaking, or memory loss, and in severe cases, even death. Smoking stands as a significant contributor to cardiovascular disease (CVD), responsible for one out of every four CVD-related deaths.
The CDC has listed what smoking can do, have a look:
- Raise triglycerides (a type of fat in your blood)
- Lower “good” cholesterol (HDL)
- Make blood sticky and more likely to clot, which can block blood flow to the heart and brain
- Damage cells that line the blood vessels
- Increase the buildup of plaque (fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances) in blood vessels
- Cause thickening and narrowing of blood vessels
Inhaling secondhand smoke poses health risks as well. It refers to the smoke emitted from burning tobacco products. By quitting smoking you can avoid the risk of developing heart disease. Second hand smoke alone has caused more than 8,000 deaths from stroke, and 34,000 early deaths from coronary heart disease year. Simply inhaling secondhand smoke, even for a short time, can harm the lining of your blood vessels and make your blood more prone to clotting. Such alterations can lead to a fatal heart attack. Consider your health and quit today.
The prohibition of tobacco flavor is a crucial step in protecting the well-being of young individuals, diminishing the attractiveness of smoking, and discouraging the start of a harmful addiction.
Reference: https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/health_effects/heart_disease/index.htm
