Smoking - Menopause And Healthy Living: Menopause Managing The Change Of Life

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Smoking

Tobacco is the number one cause of preventable illness and premature death in the United States, and smoking is responsible for the deaths of more than 178,000 women every year. About a third of those deaths are from cancer (nearly all lung, but also pancreas, stomach, cervix, and others). Another third are the result of cardiovascular disease, and most of the rest are caused by respiratory diseases. Smoking has also been linked with early menopause and wrinkles. It fouls the air and is costly.

Smokers who quit reduce their excess risk of heart disease in two years. After 10–14 years, a former smoker can regain the risk profile of someone who never took up cigarettes. Many people try quitting more than once before they are successful. If you've tried to quit and haven't yet succeeded, try nicotine patches or gum, or the prescription drug bupropion (Zyban). Some people can quit smoking on their own, but many find it helpful to join a support group or seek counseling, or to get help from Web sites or local smoking-cessation organizations (see "Resources").

Last updated:	August 13, 2007