Cigarette Smoking
Tobacco smoke is a major risk factor of heart attack and stroke. Smoking increases the speed of atherosclerosis, reduces the levels of HDL cholesterol and may trigger the formation of blood clots. Cigarette smoking is also the biggest risk factor in sudden cardiac arrest, where the heart stops pumping. Death may be instantaneous or follow soon after symptoms start. Long-term exposure to secondhand smoke, as well as cigar and pipe smoke, can also increase the risk of cardiovascular disorders in smokers and nonsmokers alike. In addition to heart conditions, smoking can also lead to lung cancer, emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
If you do smoke, find help to quit. As soon as you quit, your risk of heart attack and stroke will go down. Over time your risk may return to a level as if you never smoked. Several effective programs are available that can help you quit. Talk to your physician today about which one is right for you.
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