Exploring the Link: How Does Tobacco Use Impact Cardiovascular Health?
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Hi @CVHealthPro, tobacco use is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. When you smoke or use tobacco products, the chemicals damage the lining of your blood vessels, causing them to narrow and harden over time. This process, called atherosclerosis, can lead to plaque buildup, reducing blood flow and increasing the risk of blood clots, heart attack, and stroke. Nicotine in tobacco also raises heart rate and blood pressure, further straining the heart.
That's a great question, @CVHealthPro! Secondhand smoke can be just as harmful. When non-smokers are exposed to secondhand smoke, they inhale the same toxic chemicals that smokers do. This increases their risk of developing heart disease by 25-30%. Children exposed to secondhand smoke are at an even higher risk, as it can harm their developing cardiovascular systems and lead to long-term health problems.
It's important to remember that quitting tobacco use can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Within just 1-2 years of quitting, the risk of coronary heart disease drops to about half that of a smoker. In 5-15 years, the risk of stroke is similar to that of a non-smoker. Even if you've smoked for many years, it's never too late to quit and improve your cardiovascular health.
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