What Are the Long-term Health Effects of Tobacco Use?
Chronic exposure to tobacco smoke is linked to serious health conditions. Tobacco use is a major cause of lung cancer, with over 85% of cases attributed to smoking. It also contributes to other cancers, including those of the mouth, throat, esophagus, and bladder. Respiratory diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cardiovascular diseases are also prevalent among smokers. Smokeless tobacco products are not safer; they increase the risk of oral cancers and heart disease.