Cig

Cigarette Smoking
Cigarette_smoking.jpg
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Cough, shortness of breath, increased phlegm
Complications	Lung cancer, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Cardiovascular disease
Onset	Variable
Duration	Chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Nicotine addiction, social factors
Risks	Cancer, Heart disease, Stroke
Diagnosis	N/A
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	Smoking cessation, public health policies
Treatment	Nicotine replacement therapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, Medications
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	N/A
Deaths	N/A

Cigarette smoking is the act of inhaling and exhaling the smoke of burning tobacco encased in cigarettes. It is a major public health concern due to its association with numerous diseases and health conditions.

History

Cigarette smoking became popular in the early 20th century. The mass production of cigarettes and aggressive marketing campaigns contributed to its widespread use. Initially perceived as a harmless habit, the health risks associated with smoking were not well understood until the mid-20th century.

Composition of Cigarettes

Cigarettes contain tobacco leaves, which are processed and rolled into thin paper. They also contain numerous additives to enhance flavor and burning characteristics. The primary addictive component in cigarettes is nicotine, a potent stimulant that affects the central nervous system.

Health Effects

Cigarette smoking is a leading cause of preventable death worldwide. It is associated with a range of serious health conditions, including:

Respiratory Diseases

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Lung cancer
• Chronic bronchitis

Cardiovascular Diseases

• Coronary artery disease
• Stroke
• Peripheral artery disease

Cancer

Smoking is a major risk factor for several types of cancer, including:

• Lung cancer
• Bladder cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Esophageal cancer

Other Health Effects

• Reduced fertility
• Gum disease
• Osteoporosis

Mechanism of Addiction

Nicotine is the primary addictive substance in cigarettes. It stimulates the release of dopamine in the brain, creating pleasurable sensations and reinforcing the smoking behavior. Over time, smokers develop a dependence on nicotine, leading to withdrawal symptoms when they attempt to quit.

Prevention and Cessation

Efforts to reduce smoking rates include public health campaigns, smoking bans, and taxation on tobacco products. Smoking cessation programs often involve:

• Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Medications such as bupropion and varenicline

Public Health Impact

Cigarette smoking imposes a significant burden on healthcare systems due to the treatment of smoking-related diseases. It also affects economic productivity due to increased morbidity and mortality among smokers.

Conclusion

Cigarette smoking remains a critical public health issue. Continued efforts in education, prevention, and cessation are essential to reduce the prevalence of smoking and its associated health risks.

See Also

• Tobacco smoking
• Nicotine addiction
• Smoking cessation

Classification
External resources