3 Things Every Smoker Should Know to Protect Their Health
Whether you’re a casual or long-time smoker, understanding the health risks associated with smoking can help you make better choices for your future. Smoking impacts various aspects of your health—some effects may surprise you, while others are well-known. But the good news is, knowledge can empower you. Here are three things every smoker should know about smoking's impact on health, and some positive steps you can take today to protect yourself.
1. Smoking and Your Lungs: It’s Never Too Late to Improve Lung Health
It’s well-established that smoking harms lung health, increasing the risk of respiratory issues like chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Each cigarette contains over 7,000 chemicals, many of which damage the lungs. Studies show that prolonged exposure to these toxins inflames and scars lung tissue, leading to reduced lung function. However, the lungs possess a remarkable ability to repair themselves once smoking is reduced or stopped.
Research highlights that within a few weeks to months of quitting, lung function begins to improve, and the risk of conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) declines gradually you’ve been smoking for years, cutting back on cigarettes and adopting lung-friendly activities (such as regular exercise) can lead to noticeable improvements.
2. Oral Cancer: Early Screening Can Make All the Difference
Did you know that smoking greatly increases your risk of developing oral cancer? Tobacco smoke contains carcinogens that can damage the cells in your mouth, making smokers six times more likely than non-smokers to develop oral cancers . Early often subtle, such as small sores, red or white patches, or difficulty swallowing. Left undetected, oral cancer can progress and become difficult to treat, which is why early detection is so crucial.
Thankfully, technology offers a powerful ally for early detection. With apps like Berry.Care, you can screen for early signs of oral abnormalities from your smartphone. Using AI, Berry.Care analyzes images for abnormalities and provides guidance if further checks are needed. It’s a private, non-invasive way to be proactive about your health—especially valuable for smokers.
3. Skin Health: Smoking Ages Skin Faster, But You Can Reverse the Effects
Another lesser-known effect of smoking is its impact on the skin. Smoking reduces blood flow, depriving the skin of oxygen and nutrients. Additionally, chemicals in tobacco break down collagen and elastin, proteins that keep skin firm and youthful. Studies show that smoking accelerates skin aging, leading to wrinkles and dullness . The longer you greater the impact on your skin’s appearance and health.
However, once you reduce or quit smoking, you can help your skin repair itself. Staying hydrated, adopting a diet rich in antioxidants, and protecting your skin from sun exposure can support this process. Skin health can often improve with time, giving it a fresher look as circulation and nutrient delivery return to normal.
A Positive Step Forward: Start Small and Take Control of Your Health
If you’re a smoker, the goal isn’t to feel overwhelmed by health warnings. Instead, it’s about taking positive, manageable steps toward a healthier future. Reducing or quitting smoking has numerous benefits, but even small steps like getting regular screenings, trying out apps like Berry.Care for early detection, and supporting your lung and skin health can empower you to feel your best.
Download the Berry.Care app today to start your journey toward better health. It’s one easy way to check in on yourself and stay proactive about your health. Every small step counts, and you’ve got this!
Reference:
Bhatt, S. P., et al. (2018). Smoking cessation and reduction in lung function decline in mild-to-moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: Results from the Lung Health Study. American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, 197(5), 637-649. doi.org/10.1164/rccm.201707-1455OC
Warnakulasuriya, S., & Ariyawardana, A. (2016). Malignant transformation of oral leukoplakia: A systematic review of observational studies. Journal of Oral Pathology & Medicine, 45(3), 155-166. doi.org/10.1111/jop.12339
Daniell, H. W. (1971). Smoker's wrinkles. A study in the epidemiology of "crow's feet". Annals of Internal Medicine, 75(6), 873-880. doi.org/10.7326/0003-4819-75-6-873