It's no secret that smoking is bad for your health-and the health of people near you. The National Cancer Institute estimates that cigarette smoking causes 87 percent of lung cancer deaths and is also responsible for most cancers of the larynx, oral cavity and pharynx, esophagus and bladder.
In addition, cigarette smoking is a cause of kidney, pancreatic, cervical and stomach cancers, as well as leukemia, heart disease, fertility challenges, reduced bone density and other health problems.
Evidence is also mounting that smoking can be deeply damaging to people other than the smoker. For example, research indicates that women who smoke during pregnancy or who are exposed to secondhand smoke may increase their children's risk for asthma. And women exposed to secondhand smoke may have a higher risk for lung cancer, asthma and breast cancer.
What you can do If you are a smoker, one of the most important things you can do to protect your health is to kick the habit.
