Nicotine is a highly addictive drug found in cigarette smoke. Its addictive nature keeps people hooked on smoking, despite its harmful effects. In addition to nicotine, cigarette smoke contains approximately 7,000 other chemicals, many of which are produced through the burning of tobacco leaves. These compounds are chemically active and can cause severe and damaging changes in the body.
The Harmful Chemicals in Cigarette Smoke
- Tar: Tar, a sticky and brown substance, not only stains teeth and fingernails but also causes damage to lung tissue. It is important to remember this when smoking.
- Carbon Monoxide: This poisonous gas, which is odourless and colourless, can be deadly in large doses as it replaces oxygen in the blood. It makes breathing difficult, as oxygen struggles to reach organs and muscles.
- Oxidising Chemicals: Highly reactive chemicals in cigarette smoke can damage the heart muscles and blood vessels. They react with cholesterol, leading to the build-up of fatty material on artery walls. These negative effects can contribute to heart disease, stroke, and blood vessel disease.
- Metals: Tobacco smoke contains cancer-causing metals such as arsenic, beryllium, cadmium, chromium, cobalt, lead, and nickel.
- Radioactive Compounds: Cigarette smoke also contains radioactive compounds known to be carcinogenic.
Effects of Smoking on the Body
Smoking has detrimental effects on various organs and systems crucial for daily functioning.
Effects on the Respiratory System:
- Irritation of the trachea (windpipe) and larynx (voice box), leading to a dry and scratchy throat
- Breathlessness and reduced lung capacity
- Lung damage and increased risk of lung infections, coughing, and wheezing
- Permanent damage to the air sacs of the lungs
Effects on the Circulatory System:
- Increased blood pressure and heart rate
- Restricted blood flow, causing abnormally cold skin and decreased oxygen delivery during exercise
- “Sticky” blood, prone to clotting, increasing the risk of blood clots
- Decreased blood flow to extremities, leading to potential issues in fingers and toes
- Higher risk of heart attack
Effects on the Immune System:
- Increased susceptibility to pneumonia
- Lower levels of antioxidants, such as vitamin C, which are essential for a healthy immune system
Effects on the Musculoskeletal System:
- Tightening of certain muscles
- Reduced bone density
Effects on Sexual Organs:
In males:
- Lower sperm count
- Genetic damage to sperm
- Higher percentage of deformed sperm
In females:
- Reduced fertility
- Irregular menstrual cycle or absence of menstruation
- Early onset of menopause
- Increased risk of cervical cancer
- Greater risk of stroke and heart attack in women over 40 years old
Other Effects of Smoking on the Body:
- Irritation and inflammation of the stomach and intestines, causing discomfort
- Increased risk of stomach ulcers
- Reduced sense of smell and taste
- Premature skin wrinkling
- Higher risk of blindness
- Gum disease
Effects of Smoking on Babies:
Smoking while pregnant can have serious consequences, including:
- Increased risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, and premature birth
- Weaker lung development in the baby
- Higher risk of cleft palate and cleft lip
- Increased risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Exposure to secondhand smoke (passive smoking) during the baby’s first year can lead to ear infections, respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia and bronchitis, and sudden unexpected death in infancy.
In conclusion, it is evident that smoking has numerous negative effects on the lungs, heart, organ function, and the development and survival rate of infants. We urge individuals, including au pairs, nannies, tutors, and all others, to make informed choices and consider smoke-free environments, especially in the presence of children. Children should not be exposed to secondhand smoke, as they are unable to consent to inhaling such harmful substances.
