Smokers have an increased risk of various cancers, mainly lung cancer, as well as cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, pancreas, and bladder.

An eminent consultant pulmonologist said that the harmful chemicals in cigarettes including tar and nicotine can harm the body over time. He pointed to the risk of various cancers, mainly lung cancer, as well as mouth, throat, esophagus, pancreas, and bladder cancer. There is also an increased risk of coronary artery disease, hypertension and stroke. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis and emphysema are just a few of the respiratory ailments that affect long-term smokers, he said.

The risk of lung cancer is higher in long-term smokers. Smoking hardens and narrows the arteries, leading to heart attacks and peripheral artery disease. Also, it increases the risk of high blood pressure and blood clots.

The tar and chemicals in cigarettes disrupt the immune system. Smokers are more susceptible to infections and diseases. Beyond lung cancer, smokers have an increased risk of cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, pancreas, bladder, kidney, and cervix.