Chemical compounds in tobacco Whether in cigarettes that have not yet been used or during smoking, many chemical compounds are present or formed: Around 7 thousand, 70 of which have known carcinogenic properties. Some of the most harmful ones have names that are well known to everyone, for example: Nicotine , the main one, is responsible for addiction / dependence and also has insecticidal properties; Benzene , which is present in some fuels and pesticides; Acetone , used to remove varnish, paint and nail polish; Polonium , which is a radioactive element; Lead , used in paints and soldering material; Ammonia , present in cleaning products; Arsenic , which is a poison; Formaldehyde , used in embalming. Harmful effects of tobacco The harms of smoking are well known. Evidence shows that one in two smokers will die as a result of a tobacco-related illness. Tobacco increases the risk of several diseases and disorders, both in smokers and in those exposed to smoke, for example: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, tuberculosis and other respiratory infections. Acute myocardial infarction, known as a heart attack. Stroke, dementia. Cancer, mainly of the lung, larynx, pancreas, kidney and bladder. Osteoporosis. Changes in the color of teeth, inflammation of the gums, pain when chewing, halitosis (bad breath). Decreased smell and taste. Decreased fertility, risk of premature birth, low birth weight and sudden death syndrome. Asthma, respiratory and ear infections in children. What happens when you stop smoking The benefits are visible from the moment you stop smoking. Money savings are immediate. A huge difference in the quality of the ambient air in the home and the smell of clothes, hair or breath. Over time, the benefits for physical and mental health become increasingly evident. And the risk of tobacco-related illnesses progressively decreases over time after you stop smoking. It is known that, on average: 20 minutes after the last cigarette, blood pressure and heart rate decrease. 12 hours after the last cigarette, nicotine and carbon monoxide levels decrease and blood oxygen levels increase. 1-3 months after the last cigarette circulation and lung function improves. 1 year after the last cigarette, the risk of acute myocardial infarction decreases by 50%. 5 years after the last cigarette, the risk of stroke is the same as that of a non-smoker. 10 years after the last cigarette, the risk of death from lung cancer decreases by half. 15 years after the last cigarette, the risk of acute myocardial infarction is the same as that of someone who has never smoked. Do you want to stop smoking? Make a list of the reasons why you want to stop smoking. Decide which day you will smoke for the last time. Share your decision with family and friends. Increase physical activity. Eat a healthier diet. Drink more water. Avoid drinking coffee and alcoholic beverages. Avoid events associated with tobacco consumption. Save the money you stopped spending on tobacco. Seek help if you need It is possible to quit smoking without help, but it is difficult. Only 3%-5% of smokers who quit smoking without help maintain their decision after one year. Switching to e-cigarettes or heated tobacco are neither safe nor effective options for quitting smoking . Seek help: If you are not sure that you are able to stop smoking and stick to your decision without wavering; If you have stopped smoking on your own but have started to realize that you may not be able to stick to your decision. Talk to your doctor or other healthcare professional. Currently, behavioral support techniques and medicines are available to reduce the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal and significantly increase the success of the smoking cessation process and reduce the risk of relapse. In the hospitals and clinics of the Hospital da Luz network you can find help in smoking cessation consultations, carried out by pulmonologists specialized in smoking cessation. Author: Raquel Rosa Meet the Pulmonology medical team at the Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
