Smoking is a habit that can have devastating effects on your health. Not only does it increase your risk of respiratory diseases and heart problems, but it is also strongly linked to various types of cancer. In fact, smoking is the leading cause of preventable cancer and is responsible for a significant number of cancer-related deaths each year.
About half of U.S. deaths caused by certain cancers -- including lung, colon and pancreatic tumors -- can be attributed to smoking, according to a new study published today in JAMA Network Open.
The study encompassed various forms of tobacco use, including cigarettes, other smoked tobacco products like cigars and pipes, and smokeless tobacco products such as chewing tobacco and snuff. Notably, the use of vaping products was not included in the registry's data.
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Key findings of the study include:
- Among the nearly 400,000 patients diagnosed with tobacco-related cancers during the study period, the majority were over 60 years old, non-Hispanic white, and male.
- The most affected cancers by tobacco use were lung and bladder cancer, with significant proportions of deaths attributed to tobacco in cancers of the lung, larynx, esophagus, oral cavity/pharynx, and bladder.
- Men generally had higher proportions of tobacco-related cancers compared to women, with notable differences in liver, stomach, kidney cancer, and acute myeloid leukemia.
The Dirty Dozen
Understanding the specific cancers associated with smoking can serve as a powerful motivator to quit and take control of your health. Here's how smoking can increase your risk for these 12 forms of cancer:
1. Lung Cancer
Perhaps the most well-known association with smoking, lung cancer is a deadly disease that affects the lungs' ability to function. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and the risk increases with the number of cigarettes smoked and the duration of smoking.
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2. Mouth and Throat Cancer
Smoking can lead to cancer in the mouth, throat, and esophagus. These cancers can be particularly aggressive and difficult to treat, often resulting in severe consequences for speech and swallowing.
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3. Bladder Cancer
Smokers are at a higher risk of developing bladder cancer compared to non-smokers. The harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke can damage the bladder lining, increasing the likelihood of cancerous growths.
4. Kidney Cancer
Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of kidney cancer. The toxins from tobacco smoke can affect the kidneys' ability to function properly and may contribute to the development of cancerous tumors.
5. Liver Cancer
Although less commonly known, smoking has also been associated with an increased risk of liver cancer. The harmful substances in tobacco smoke can affect liver function and contribute to the development of cancer cells.
6. Stomach Cancer
Smoking can increase the risk of developing stomach cancer. The chemicals in tobacco smoke can damage the cells lining the stomach, leading to the formation of cancerous tumors.
7. Pancreatic Cancer
Smoking is a significant risk factor for pancreatic cancer. The toxins in tobacco smoke can affect the pancreas' ability to function correctly and may contribute to the development of cancerous cells in the pancreas.
8. Colorectal Cancer
Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. The harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke can damage the cells lining the colon and rectum, increasing the likelihood of cancerous growths.
9. Cervical Cancer
Female smokers have a higher risk of developing cervical cancer compared to non-smokers. Smoking can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a significant risk factor for cervical cancer.
10. Ovarian Cancer
Smoking has been associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer. The toxins in tobacco smoke can affect hormone levels and may contribute to the development of cancerous cells in the ovaries.
11. Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of AML, a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. The chemicals in tobacco smoke can damage the DNA in blood cells, increasing the risk of leukemia.
12. Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS)
Smoking has also been associated with an increased risk of MDS, a group of disorders characterized by abnormal blood cell production in the bone marrow. The toxins in tobacco smoke can disrupt the normal function of bone marrow cells, leading to the development of MDS.
The link between smoking and cancer is undeniable. By understanding the specific cancers associated with smoking, you can make more informed decisions about your health. Quitting smoking is one of the most important steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing these deadly diseases. If you or someone you know is struggling to quit smoking, consider reaching out to a healthcare professional or joining a support group to get the help you need. Your health is worth it.
