How does smoking affect overall health?

Smoking significantly increases the risk of multiple diseases due to the harmful substances found in tobacco smoke. When individuals smoke, they inhale a mix of more than 7,000 chemicals, many of which are toxic and can lead to serious health issues. These include well-known diseases such as lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease, and stroke. The carcinogens in tobacco smoke can damage DNA and cause mutations that ultimately lead to cancer.

Additionally, smoking compromises the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections and recover from illnesses. It also affects cardiovascular health by contributing to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can result in atherosclerosis and increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

In contrast, other options reflect misinformation about the effects of smoking. Smoking does not improve lung capacity; instead, it damages lung function over time. It also does not decrease the risk of diseases; rather, it significantly raises the likelihood of developing serious health conditions. Finally, claiming that smoking has no significant effect on health overlooks the extensive evidence linking smoking to numerous health risks and chronic diseases. Therefore, recognizing smoking as a major factor that increases disease risk is essential for understanding its impact on overall health.