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Health Risks

Nicotine Dependence
Health Risks

Tobacco use is responsible for about one in five deaths annually in the United States.

Smoking can damage virtually all systems of your body and can cause:

Cardiovascular disease

Lung disease

Reproductive conditions

Other conditions

Other conditions related to smoking include:

  • Cataracts
  • Osteoporosis
  • Periodontitis or gum disease
  • Peptic ulcer disease

Second-hand smoke

Second-hand smoke can cause premature death and disease in both children and adult non-smokers.

Children exposed to second-hand smoke are at an increased risk for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and may also develop:

  • Acute respiratory infections
  • Ear problems
  • More severe asthma
  • Respiratory symptoms and slowed lung growth if parents smoke

Adults exposed to second-hand smoke are at increased risk for coronary heart disease and lung cancer. Second-hand smoke may also have an immediate negative effect on your cardiovascular system.

UCSF Health medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your provider.

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