Let’s make every day World No Tobacco Day. Smoking affects you and everybody around you. If you smoke a cigarette, hookah or cigar, you are at higher risk of many diseases including:
- Lung infections with higher risk of bronchitis and lung cancer
- Mood swings due to nicotine dependency
- Early menopause with increased hot flashes
- Sagging skin and wrinkles
- Damaged gum and teeth
- Vision problems with higher risk for glaucoma and cataracts
- Dull sense of smell and taste
- Heart and cardiovascular diseases with higher risk for a heart attack
- Pregnancy and fertility complications
- Increased risk of several cancers including cancer of the mouth, throat, bladder, and kidneys
Here are some steps to quit smoking for good:
- Set a date to start your smoke free journey
- Stay away from cigarettes and live in a smoke-free environment
- Practice stress reduction techniques such as yoga, exercise, etc.
- Avoid smoking triggers and use chewing gums every time you feel the urge of smoking
- Enjoy a healthy lifestyle: eat healthy and exercise
- Remind yourself of the health benefits of smoking cessation
- Consult your doctor for nicotine replacements