Smoking affects women in different ways to men, and women may well be at far greater risk of contracting serious diseases like cancer by smoking. This is due to the way in which oestrogen affects the body in combination with the carcinogens contained in cigarettes. It also has a relationship with the specific physiological make-up of some women. Research shows that female genes and the way in which women break down the toxic chemicals in cigarettes leads to an increased risk of lung cancer. A further point of interest is that lung cancer in women who don’t smoke has also grown over the last few years. Scientists think that this is related to the influence of airborne pollution and other environmental factors, including passive smoking by women who are already sensitive due to the factors mentioned above.
Nobody is in doubt about the dangers of smoking these days, and this is strongly the case for both men and women. Smoking is a habit that should be ceased as a priority, as it carries such devastating effects for wellbeing. When you smoke you increase the risk of several cancers, heart disease and poor circulation, to name just a few of the relevant wellness issues. It is understandable that you may need support in quitting smoking, so seek out a local support group or ask you doctor for advice. There are also numerous self-help books on the market. Don’t delay in prioritising your wellbeing and find a way to enact this change today.