Toxic effect of tobacco and nicotine Save

Toxic Effect of Tobacco and Nicotine

Tobacco is a plant that contains nicotine, a highly addictive substance. When tobacco is smoked, nicotine is absorbed into the bloodstream and reaches the brain within seconds. Nicotine stimulates the release of adrenaline, which increases heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing rate. These effects can be pleasurable for smokers, but they can also be harmful.

There are many toxic chemicals in tobacco smoke, including tar, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen cyanide. Tar is a sticky substance that can coat the lungs and cause lung cancer. Carbon monoxide reduces the amount of oxygen that the blood can carry, which can lead to heart disease and stroke. Hydrogen cyanide is a poisonous gas that can damage the cells in the body.

The toxic effects of tobacco and nicotine are not limited to smokers. Secondhand smoke, also known as passive smoking, can also be harmful. When non-smokers breathe in secondhand smoke, they are exposed to many of the same toxic chemicals as smokers. This can increase their risk of lung cancer, heart disease, and other health problems.

1. Lung Cancer: Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer. It is responsible for 85% of all cases of lung cancer. The risk of lung cancer increases with the number of cigarettes smoked per day and the number of years a person has smoked.
2. Heart Disease: Smoking is a major cause of heart disease. It can cause atherosclerosis, a condition in which the arteries become narrowed and hardened. This can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular diseases.
3. Respiratory Diseases: Smoking can cause many respiratory diseases, including chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma. These diseases can make it difficult to breathe and can be life-threatening.
4. Pregnancy Complications: Smoking during pregnancy can cause many complications, including premature birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth. It can also increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

In conclusion, tobacco and nicotine have many toxic effects on the body. Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death worldwide. Quitting smoking is the best way to reduce the risk of many health problems. There are many resources available to help people quit smoking, including nicotine replacement therapy, counseling, and support groups.