Many people believe that cigars are less harmful than cigarettes. After all, cigar smoke isn’t inhaled into the lungs, right? Unfortunately, this is a myth. Although the way cigars are smoked differs from smoking cigarettes, the health risks are comparable, and in some cases even greater.
Nicotine and tar – a common enemy
Both cigars and cigarettes contain tobacco, and thus nicotine and tar. Nicotine is a highly addictive substance that affects the nervous system, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Tar, on the other hand, is a mixture of hundreds of chemical compounds, many of which have carcinogenic effects.
The concentration of these harmful substances in cigars is often higher than in cigarettes. One cigar can contain as much tobacco as an entire pack of cigarettes!
Different ways of smoking, similar effects
While cigarette smoke is usually inhaled into the lungs, cigar smoke usually stays in the mouth and is released. However, this does not mean that it is safe. The mucous membranes of the mouth and throat also absorb nicotine and tar, which increases the risk of cancer in these areas.
Cancers of the oral cavity, throat and larynx
Smoking cigars significantly increases the risk of cancers of the oral cavity, throat, larynx and esophagus. Cigar smoke, rich in carcinogens, irritates the mucous membranes, leading to inflammation and precancerous lesions.
Respiratory diseases
Although cigar smoke is not usually inhaled into the lungs, it can still negatively affect the respiratory system. Cigar smokers are at a higher risk for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis, and emphysema.
Cardiovascular diseases
The nicotine in cigars affects the circulatory system, raising blood pressure and increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke and atherosclerosis.
Other risks
Cigar smoking is also associated with other health problems, such as:
- Gum disease and tooth loss: Cigar smoke irritates the gums and promotes bacterial growth, which can lead to periodontal disease and tooth loss.
- Fertility problems: Cigar smoking can negatively affect fertility in both men and women.
- Pregnancy complications: Women who smoke cigars during pregnancy are at higher risk of miscarriages, premature births, and having a baby with low birth weight.
The myth of “occasional” cigar smoking
Some people believe that occasional cigar smoking is not harmful. This is another myth. Each, even occasional, cigar smoking introduces harmful substances into the body and increases the risk of serious diseases.
Summary
Smoking cigars, like smoking cigarettes, is harmful to your health and increases the risk of many serious diseases. Don’t be fooled by myths – cigar smoke is no safer than cigarette smoke.
Remark:
The above article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for a visit to a doctor. If you have any doubts about your health, you should consult a specialist.
