One Cigarette Is All It Takes to Harm Your Heart, Lungs — Your Life

A Single Cigarette Destroys the Body in Multiple Ways. Every year on May 31st, the World Health Organization (WHO) designates the day as World No Tobacco Day to raise global awareness about the dangers of smoking and its undeniable impact on health.

Cigarettes contain over 7,000 chemicals, including more than 250 toxic substances and over 70 known carcinogens. These harmful compounds affect various bodily systems and contribute to the development of numerous diseases.

1. Cardiovascular Diseases: Smoking even a few cigarettes a day damages the heart and blood vessels. Toxic substances in cigarettes cause heart arrhythmia and coronary artery disease.
2. Emphysema: Smoking is a primary cause of shortness of breath and fatigue. In severe cases, patients may become bedridden or require continuous oxygen.
3. Cancer: Cigarettes are a leading cause of various types of cancers, especially lung cancer. Individuals at risk are advised to undergo screening with low-dose computed tomography (low-dose CT Scan).
4. Osteoporosis: Nicotine damages bone-forming cells and accelerates bone loss.
5. Diabetes: Toxic substances accumulate in the pancreas, impairing its function and leading to elevated blood sugar levels, which can result in diabetes.
6. Pneumonitis: Smoking damages the respiratory tract lining, increasing susceptibility to respiratory infections.
7. Infant and Child Health: Research shows that secondhand and thirdhand smoke adversely affect children’s health, increasing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), respiratory infections, asthma, allergies, and impairing brain development and intelligence.

Moreover, the harmful effects of smoking impact not only internal health but also outward appearance and personal image—especially in social interactions and daily life. The sooner you quit smoking, the greater the benefits—for your health and the health of those you love.

For more information, contact

Internal Medicine Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 ext. 2200, 2272
English Hotline:(+66)85-223-8888