While it’s known that smoking combustible cigarettes has the potential to open doors to many health problems, your cardiovascular health is high on that list. Despite widespread awareness campaigns and stringent regulations, smoking remains a prevalent habit worldwide, contributing significantly to the burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Understanding the profound link between smoking and cardiovascular health is crucial in combating this preventable epidemic.
The mechanisms at play
One of the primary mechanisms through which smoking affects the cardiovascular system is by promoting atherosclerosis. The toxic components of tobacco smoking, which include tar and carbon monoxide, instrigate the formation of fatty deposits within the arteries, narrowing their diameter and impeding blood flow. This process not only predisposes individuals to hypertension but also elevates the risk of myocardial infarction and stroke.
Impact on endothelial function
Smoking combustible cigarettes induces systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, which exacerbates endothelial dysfunction—a hallmark of atherosclerosis. Endothelial cells lining the blood vessels play a pivotal role in regulating vascular tone and preventing thrombosis. However, chronic exposure to combustible cigarette smoke disrupts this delicate balance, fostering a prothrombotic environment conducive to the development of cardiovascular events.
Disruption of lipid metabolism
Combustible cigarette smoke adversely affects lipid metabolism, disturbing the balance between high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Elevated levels of LDL cholesterol, often referred to as bad cholesterol, can accumulate within the arterial walls, fostering plaque formation and arterial stiffness.
The risk extended beyond smokers
The health risks from smoking combustible cigarettes are not confined to active smokers. Secondhand smoke also poses a significant risk to the cardiovascular health of those around you. Since non-smokers sometimes have no option to stay clear of those who smoke tobacco, their susceptibility is heightened and is a public health issue.
What can be done to lower your risk?
For those who smoke, quitting is the most effective way to lower your risk for cardiovascular diseases. Since motivation only goes so far, consider using an e-cig as a smoking cessation tool. Find a device that meets your current nicotine needs and when you’re ready, lower your intake until you no longer rely on nicotine at all.
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