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Q. What are the Health Hazards from Smoking Cigars?

From Terry Martin,
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What are the dangers to my health from smoking cigars?
A. Cigar smoking has been linked to several smoking-related diseases and conditions.

Cancer
  • Oral cancer
  • Esophageal Cancer
  • Lung cancer
  • Pancreatic cancer
  • Bladder cancer
  • Cervical cancer. It's suspected that the TSNA in tobacco smoke may contribute to cervical cancer. Research is ongoing. Cigar smoke is laden with TSNA.

    COPD / Emphysema
    Most cigar smokers don't inhale, but for those who do, the damage potential to the lungs is similar to that of cigarette smoke.

    All About COPD
    Emphysema Causes and Symptoms

    Heart Disease
    Cigar smoking has been linked to coronary artery disease. Smoking is hard on the heart.

    Smoking and the Risk of Atherosclerosis

    Erectile dysfunction
    Cigar smoking and exposure to second hand smoke in particular have been shown to be significant risk factors for erectile dysfunction.

    Erectile Dysfunction

    Cigar smoking is unhealthy, and the toxins are every bit as abundant and damaging as those in cigarette smoke. If you smoke cigars, even occasionally, consider quitting. They offer you nothing of value. Protect your health and that of those you love. Don't smoke tobacco!

    Sources:
  • Krall, Elizabeth et al. Alveloar Bone Loss and Tooth Loss in Male Cigar and Pipe Smokers Journal of the American Dental Association 1999 Jan;130(1):57.
  • Iribarren, Carlos et al. Effect of cigar smoking on the risk of cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cancer in men. New England Journal of Medicine 1999 Jun;340;1773-1780.
  • Questions and Answers about Cigar Smoking National Cancer Institute
  • Pipe and Cigar Smoking: Factsheet No. 13 Action on Smoking and Health (ASH)
  • Updated: June 27, 2006
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