Health and Me

Riya Baibhawi

World No-Tobacco Day: Quitting Smoking Can Significantly Boost 'Good' Cholesterol And Heart Health

Quitting Smoking Can Significantly Boost 'Good' Cholesterol And Heart Health

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) <span>cholesterol</span>, often termed the "good" cholesterol, plays a crucial role in cardiovascular health by transporting cholesterol from the arteries to the liver for excretion or reuse. Elevated HDL levels are associated with a reduced risk of heart disease due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. While genetics influence HDL levels, lifestyle choices significantly impact them. 

One notable lifestyle change that positively affects HDL cholesterol is quitting <span>smoking</span>. Smoking has been shown to suppress HDL levels, thereby increasing the risk of heart disease. A 2018 study highlighted that pregnant women who smoked had significantly lower HDL levels compared to non-smokers. The American Lung Association emphasizes that quitting smoking can enhance HDL levels by facilitating the removal of cholesterol from the bloodstream. 

Beyond improving HDL cholesterol, smoking cessation offers a myriad of health benefits. Within 20 minutes of quitting, blood pressure and heart rate begin to decrease. In a few days, carbon monoxide levels in the blood normalize, and within 48 hours, nerve endings start to regenerate, enhancing the senses of taste and smell. Over the subsequent months and years, the risks of coronary heart disease, stroke, and various cancers diminish significantly. 

To further boost HDL levels, individuals can adopt additional lifestyle modifications: 

<ul><li>Incorporate Healthy Fats: Consuming extra virgin olive oil, rich in polyphenols, can increase HDL cholesterol.</li><li>Engage in Regular Exercise: Physical activities, including strength training and high-intensity interval training, have been shown to elevate HDL levels and enhance their functionality.</li><li>Adopt a Low-Carb Diet: Low-carbohydrate and ketogenic diets can raise HDL cholesterol, especially in individuals with obesity or insulin resistance. </li><li>Consume Fatty Fish: Fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can improve HDL cholesterol levels.</li><li>Avoid Trans Fats: Eliminating artificial trans fats from the diet helps prevent the lowering of HDL cholesterol and reduces inflammation. </li><li>In conclusion, quitting smoking is a pivotal step toward enhancing HDL cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular health. Coupled with other healthy lifestyle choices, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of heart disease and improve their quality of life.</li></ul><h2>What All Do We Know About Cholesterol?</h2>Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in every cell of the body. While it’s essential for building cells, producing hormones, and aiding digestion, too much cholesterol in the blood can pose health risks—particularly to the heart.

There are two main types of cholesterol: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). LDL is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol because it carries cholesterol to the arteries. High levels of LDL can lead to plaque buildup in artery walls, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

HDL, or "good" cholesterol, works in the opposite way. It transports cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver, where it is broken down or excreted. HDL also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to protect the cardiovascular system.

Maintaining a healthy balance between LDL and HDL is crucial. While high LDL levels are harmful, high HDL levels are beneficial and can lower the risk of heart problems. Lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and quitting smoking can help improve this balance and promote <span>heart health</span>. 

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High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, often termed the "good" cholesterol, plays a crucial role in cardiovascular health by transporting cholesterol from the arteries to the liver for excretion or reuse. Elevated HDL levels are associated with a reduced risk of heart disease due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. While genetics influence HDL levels, lifestyle choices significantly impact them. One notable lifestyle change that positively affects HDL cholesterol is quitting smoking. Smoking has been shown to suppress HDL levels, thereby increasing the risk of heart disease. A 2018 study highlighted that pregnant women who smoked had significantly lower HDL levels compared to non-smokers. The American Lung Association emphasizes that quitting smoking can enhance HDL levels by facilitating the removal of cholesterol from the bloodstream. Beyond improving HDL cholesterol, smoking cessation offers a myriad of health benefits. Within 20 minutes of quitting, blood pressure and heart rate begin to decrease. In a few days, carbon monoxide levels in the blood normalize, and within 48 hours, nerve endings start to regenerate, enhancing the senses of taste and smell. Over the subsequent months and years, the risks of coronary heart disease, stroke, and various cancers diminish significantly. To further boost HDL levels, individuals can adopt additional lifestyle modifications: Incorporate Healthy Fats: Consuming extra virgin olive oil, rich in polyphenols, can increase HDL cholesterol.Engage in Regular Exercise: Physical activities, including strength training and high-intensity interval training, have been shown to elevate HDL levels and enhance their functionality.Adopt a Low-Carb Diet: Low-carbohydrate and ketogenic diets can raise HDL cholesterol, especially in individuals with obesity or insulin resistance. Consume Fatty Fish: Fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can improve HDL cholesterol levels.Avoid Trans Fats: Eliminating artificial trans fats from the diet helps prevent the lowering of HDL cholesterol and reduces inflammation. In conclusion, quitting smoking is a pivotal step toward enhancing HDL cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular health. Coupled with other healthy lifestyle choices, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of heart disease and improve their quality of life.What All Do We Know About Cholesterol?Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in every cell of the body. While it’s essential for building cells, producing hormones, and aiding digestion, too much cholesterol in the blood can pose health risks—particularly to the heart.There are two main types of cholesterol: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). LDL is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol because it carries cholesterol to the arteries. High levels of LDL can lead to plaque buildup in artery walls, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.HDL, or "good" cholesterol, works in the opposite way. It transports cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver, where it is broken down or excreted. HDL also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to protect the cardiovascular system.Maintaining a healthy balance between LDL and HDL is crucial. While high LDL levels are harmful, high HDL levels are beneficial and can lower the risk of heart problems. Lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and quitting smoking can help improve this balance and promote heart health. 

quitting smoking can significantly boost 'good' cholesterol and heart health

Ishita Roy

Hailey Bieber Is Battling With Ovarian Cysts, All That You Need To Know About It

hailey bieber is battling with ovarian cysts, all that you need to know about it

Chronic Loneliness May Trigger Early Cognitive Decline In Young Adults

chronic loneliness may trigger early cognitive decline in young adults

Man Dies After Tick Bite ‘Blew Up’ His Brain: What Kind Of Ticks Carry The Deadly Powassan Virus?

man dies after tick bite ‘blew up’ his brain: what kind of ticks carry the deadly powassan virus?

Smoking Could Be A Bigger Issue For People With Disability

smoking could be a bigger issue for people with disability

A recent study has revealed that 17.4% of college-going women aged 18-25 in Delhi are affected by Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (<span>PCOS</span>), marking the second-highest prevalence rate recorded in the country. The study, partly funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), was published in the peer-reviewed journal BMC Health. It included a cross-sectional survey of 1,164 participants and a systematic review of studies conducted between 2010 and 2024 across India in similar age groups.

<h4>PCOS: A Widespread Yet Under-Researched Disorder</h4>

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age. It is characterised by a range of symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), acne, and obesity. Despite being widespread, the disorder remains under-researched, especially in young women.

The study points out that the pooled prevalence of PCOS across India in this age group, based on similar diagnostic criteria, stood at 8.41%. By comparison, Delhi’s figure of 17.4% is significantly higher, highlighting a concerning urban health trend. Previous data from the Ministry of Science and Technology has shown that PCOS prevalence in India can vary between 3.70% and 22.50%, depending on region, setting, and socio-cultural factors.

The researchers observed a higher prevalence of PCOS in urban areas with heterogeneous and migrating populations. Many young women move to cities like Delhi for academic and career opportunities, which often leads to psychological stress, disrupted sleep cycles, and unhealthy dietary habits. These factors, in turn, may contribute to the increasing incidence of PCOS.

“This displacement and the resulting lifestyle changes — juggling education, work, and home responsibilities — seem to be closely linked to the rise in PCOS cases,” the study noted.

The research was conducted by Apoorva Sharma, Naorem Kiranmala Devi, and Kallur Nava Saraswathy from the Department of Anthropology, Delhi University, along with Dr. Yamini Swarwal from Safdarjung Hospital. According to Prof. Saraswathy, ethical clearance for the fieldwork was obtained from Delhi University, and the data collection process spanned two years.

Of the 1,164 women surveyed, 70.3% had already been diagnosed with PCOS, while 29.7% were newly diagnosed during the course of the study. The researchers also facilitated ultrasound testing for women who displayed symptoms but had not yet been diagnosed.

<h4>Socio-Demographic and Caste-Based Disparities</h4>

The study found that women from upper and upper-middle socioeconomic classes, as per the Modified Kuppuswamy Scale, were at higher risk. Researchers attributed this to a “nutrition transition” involving increased consumption of processed foods, fats, and sugars, alongside reduced physical activity. This shift has led to increased insulin resistance and obesity—factors known to be linked to PCOS.

Interestingly, the highest prevalence of PCOS was recorded among Scheduled Tribes (21.4%), followed by women from the General Category (19.9%), with lower rates among Other Backward Classes (OBC) and Scheduled Castes. The authors suggest that this might reflect broader inequalities in healthcare access and lifestyle, underscoring the urgent need for targeted health interventions and greater awareness.

PCOS

health and wellness

pcos/pcod

women's health

womens health

A recent study has revealed that 17.4% of college-going women aged 18-25 in Delhi are affected by Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), marking the second-highest prevalence rate recorded in the country. The study, partly funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), was published in the peer-reviewed journal BMC Health. It included a cross-sectional survey of 1,164 participants and a systematic review of studies conducted between 2010 and 2024 across India in similar age groups.PCOS: A Widespread Yet Under-Researched DisorderPolycystic Ovary Syndrome is a common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age. It is characterised by a range of symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), acne, and obesity. Despite being widespread, the disorder remains under-researched, especially in young women.The study points out that the pooled prevalence of PCOS across India in this age group, based on similar diagnostic criteria, stood at 8.41%. By comparison, Delhi’s figure of 17.4% is significantly higher, highlighting a concerning urban health trend. Previous data from the Ministry of Science and Technology has shown that PCOS prevalence in India can vary between 3.70% and 22.50%, depending on region, setting, and socio-cultural factors.Urban Lifestyle and Its RoleThe researchers observed a higher prevalence of PCOS in urban areas with heterogeneous and migrating populations. Many young women move to cities like Delhi for academic and career opportunities, which often leads to psychological stress, disrupted sleep cycles, and unhealthy dietary habits. These factors, in turn, may contribute to the increasing incidence of PCOS.“This displacement and the resulting lifestyle changes — juggling education, work, and home responsibilities — seem to be closely linked to the rise in PCOS cases,” the study noted.The research was conducted by Apoorva Sharma, Naorem Kiranmala Devi, and Kallur Nava Saraswathy from the Department of Anthropology, Delhi University, along with Dr. Yamini Swarwal from Safdarjung Hospital. According to Prof. Saraswathy, ethical clearance for the fieldwork was obtained from Delhi University, and the data collection process spanned two years.Diagnosis and TestingOf the 1,164 women surveyed, 70.3% had already been diagnosed with PCOS, while 29.7% were newly diagnosed during the course of the study. The researchers also facilitated ultrasound testing for women who displayed symptoms but had not yet been diagnosed.Socio-Demographic and Caste-Based DisparitiesThe study found that women from upper and upper-middle socioeconomic classes, as per the Modified Kuppuswamy Scale, were at higher risk. Researchers attributed this to a “nutrition transition” involving increased consumption of processed foods, fats, and sugars, alongside reduced physical activity. This shift has led to increased insulin resistance and obesity—factors known to be linked to PCOS.Interestingly, the highest prevalence of PCOS was recorded among Scheduled Tribes (21.4%), followed by women from the General Category (19.9%), with lower rates among Other Backward Classes (OBC) and Scheduled Castes. The authors suggest that this might reflect broader inequalities in healthcare access and lifestyle, underscoring the urgent need for targeted health interventions and greater awareness.

high pcos prevalence found among young women in delhi, finds study

Doctors Removed 210cm Long Hairball From Teen's Stomach

Bizarre Medical Case: Teen Without Vaginal Opening Becomes Pregnant, Stuns Doctors

bizarre medical case: teen without vaginal opening becomes pregnant, stuns doctors

Pop Singer Miley Cyrus Credits Her 'Signature' Voice To THIS Rare Condition

signature miley cyrus voice is caused by this reveals rare condition

In a landmark medical feat, doctors at SMS Hospital in Jaipur have successfully removed a 210-centimetre-long trichobezoar—a dense, compact mass of hair—from the stomach of a 14-year-old girl from Barara village in Agra district, Uttar Pradesh. This extraordinary case is believed to be the longest trichobezoar ever removed globally, surpassing the previous world record of 180 cm.

<h4>Rare Case Presents Major Surgical Challenge</h4>

The case posed significant surgical challenges. The trichobezoar had extended from the stomach into the small intestine, complicating the procedure. Surgeons were determined to extract it in one piece to avoid making multiple incisions in the intestine, which could increase complications.

Despite the complexity of the situation, the surgical team completed the operation within two hours and did not require a blood transfusion. In an impressive display of surgical precision, the entire hairball was removed intact.

<h4>Persistent Symptoms Lead to Diagnosis</h4>

The girl had been experiencing persistent abdominal pain and vomiting for over a month. Upon arrival at SMS Hospital, doctors noted a hard, elongated mass in her abdomen, stretching from her stomach to the area near her navel. A Contrast-Enhanced CT (CECT) scan revealed an unusually enlarged stomach filled with a foreign substance, prompting immediate intervention.

Doctors diagnosed the young patient with Pica, a psychological disorder in which individuals develop cravings for non-edible substances. Dr. Jeevan Kankaria from the hospital’s surgery department explained that the girl initially started eating chalk in school under peer influence. Over time, this progressed into the consumption of hair and other non-food items.

“During surgery, we found not only hair but also wooden pieces, rubber bands, stones, threads, and other inedible materials entangled in the mass,” said Dr. Kankaria, who led the surgical team.

“When we measured the trichobezoar after removal, it was 210 cm long, which we believe is the longest ever taken out from a human stomach,” Dr. Kankaria stated. The hospital is now in the process of submitting the case to the Guinness World Records for official recognition. Dr. Kankaria already holds four Guinness World Records for previous surgical milestones.

<h4>Patient’s Recovery and Future Outlook</h4>

The girl, a Class 10 student from a farming family, is currently recovering well under observation at SMS Hospital. Her post-operative condition is stable, and doctors expect to discharge her soon.

This rare case highlights the critical need for early intervention in psychological disorders such as Pica and the importance of awareness among parents and educators. Dr. Kankaria stressed that behavioral and psychological support will be essential in the patient’s long-term recovery to prevent recurrence.

As the medical team awaits potential recognition from the Guinness World Records, this groundbreaking surgery stands as a testament to the precision, planning, and teamwork of doctors at SMS Hospital—and serves as a crucial reminder of the unusual ways psychological disorders can manifest physically.

hairball removal

doctors remove big hairball

rare surgery

ct scan

In a landmark medical feat, doctors at SMS Hospital in Jaipur have successfully removed a 210-centimetre-long trichobezoar—a dense, compact mass of hair—from the stomach of a 14-year-old girl from Barara village in Agra district, Uttar Pradesh. This extraordinary case is believed to be the longest trichobezoar ever removed globally, surpassing the previous world record of 180 cm.Rare Case Presents Major Surgical ChallengeThe case posed significant surgical challenges. The trichobezoar had extended from the stomach into the small intestine, complicating the procedure. Surgeons were determined to extract it in one piece to avoid making multiple incisions in the intestine, which could increase complications.Despite the complexity of the situation, the surgical team completed the operation within two hours and did not require a blood transfusion. In an impressive display of surgical precision, the entire hairball was removed intact.Persistent Symptoms Lead to DiagnosisThe girl had been experiencing persistent abdominal pain and vomiting for over a month. Upon arrival at SMS Hospital, doctors noted a hard, elongated mass in her abdomen, stretching from her stomach to the area near her navel. A Contrast-Enhanced CT (CECT) scan revealed an unusually enlarged stomach filled with a foreign substance, prompting immediate intervention.Pica: The Psychological RootDoctors diagnosed the young patient with Pica, a psychological disorder in which individuals develop cravings for non-edible substances. Dr. Jeevan Kankaria from the hospital’s surgery department explained that the girl initially started eating chalk in school under peer influence. Over time, this progressed into the consumption of hair and other non-food items.“During surgery, we found not only hair but also wooden pieces, rubber bands, stones, threads, and other inedible materials entangled in the mass,” said Dr. Kankaria, who led the surgical team.A Record-Breaking Removal“When we measured the trichobezoar after removal, it was 210 cm long, which we believe is the longest ever taken out from a human stomach,” Dr. Kankaria stated. The hospital is now in the process of submitting the case to the Guinness World Records for official recognition. Dr. Kankaria already holds four Guinness World Records for previous surgical milestones.Patient’s Recovery and Future OutlookThe girl, a Class 10 student from a farming family, is currently recovering well under observation at SMS Hospital. Her post-operative condition is stable, and doctors expect to discharge her soon.This rare case highlights the critical need for early intervention in psychological disorders such as Pica and the importance of awareness among parents and educators. Dr. Kankaria stressed that behavioral and psychological support will be essential in the patient’s long-term recovery to prevent recurrence.As the medical team awaits potential recognition from the Guinness World Records, this groundbreaking surgery stands as a testament to the precision, planning, and teamwork of doctors at SMS Hospital—and serves as a crucial reminder of the unusual ways psychological disorders can manifest physically.

doctors removed 210cm long hairball from teen's stomach

World No Tobacco Day 2025: Does Smoking Affect Women Differently Than Men?

Does Smoking Affect Women Differently Than Men?

World No Tobacco Day 2025: How “Safe” Vaping Is Hooking A New Generation On Nicotine?

world no tobacco day 2025: how “safe” vaping is hooking a new generation on nicotine?

Health News

World No Tobacco Day 2025: Theme, History, And Significance

world no tobacco day 2025: theme, history, and significance

Can Drinking Alcohol Increase Your Risk Of Pancreatic Cancer? WHO Study Reveals Alarming Link

can drinking alcohol increase your risk of pancreatic cancer? who study reveals alarming link

On <span>World No Tobacco Day</span>, Dr. Sajjan Rajpurohit, Senior Director of Medical Oncology at BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, sheds light on how tobacco affects women differently than men. While the overall dangers of <span>smoking</span> are well known, Dr. Rajpurohit emphasizes the need to understand the biological, hormonal, and social dimensions that make women more vulnerable to tobacco-related diseases and challenges in quitting.

<h4>Biological Differences Make Women More Sensitive to Nicotine</h4>

“Women metabolize nicotine more slowly than men, which results in prolonged exposure to its harmful effects,” says Dr. Rajpurohit. This slower metabolism, combined with hormonal changes across a woman’s life—such as during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause—can heighten nicotine’s addictive properties.

For instance, estrogen, a key female hormone, may increase sensitivity to nicotine, making it harder for women to quit. “This also explains why withdrawal symptoms might be more severe in women,” he adds.

Women who smoke are more susceptible to certain diseases than their male counterparts, warns Dr. Rajpurohit.

Though men historically had higher rates of lung cancer, the gap has narrowed as more women took up smoking. “Women are not only developing lung cancer at younger ages, but they may also face more aggressive forms of the disease,” he says, pointing to biological differences in lung structure and function.

Smoking significantly raises the risk of heart disease in women, especially those using hormonal contraceptives. “Smoking can cause the arteries to harden and increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. When combined with birth control pills, the risk becomes even higher,” he explains.

<h4>Reproductive and Pregnancy Complications</h4>

Smoking affects fertility and reproductive health. It can lead to complications such as ectopic pregnancies, miscarriage, preterm delivery, and low birth weight. “Women in their childbearing years should be especially cautious, as smoking during this period can have lasting effects on both the mother and child,” Dr. Rajpurohit stresses.

He also highlights severe pregnancy-related risks like placental abruption (where the placenta detaches from the uterus) and placenta previa (when the placenta blocks the cervix), both of which can endanger maternal and fetal health.

<h4>Hormonal Imbalance and Fertility Issues</h4>

Nicotine disrupts hormonal balance, impacting ovulation and menstrual cycles. Women who smoke often report irregular periods and find it more difficult to conceive. “The damage is not just temporary—prolonged tobacco use can lead to long-term reproductive challenges,” says Dr. Rajpurohit.

<h4>Why Women Find It Harder to Quit</h4>

Quitting smoking can be a more difficult journey for women due to psychological, hormonal, and social factors.

“Many women smoke to manage stress, anxiety, or depression. This emotional dependence can complicate their efforts to quit,” Dr. Rajpurohit explains. Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can also influence cravings and mood, making it harder to resist smoking.

Additionally, women may lack adequate support from family or peers. “Social encouragement plays a huge role in smoking cessation, and women often find themselves without the backing they need,” he says.

To help women quit, he recommends a tailored approach involving behavioral therapy, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), and personalized quit plans. “These strategies must take into account individual stressors, emotional needs, and social settings,” he adds.

<h4>Secondhand Smoke and Societal Pressures</h4>

Women are often exposed to secondhand smoke in domestic environments, putting them at risk for the same diseases as smokers. “The dangers of passive smoking are real and can lead to respiratory illness, heart disease, and even pregnancy complications,” says Dr. Rajpurohit.

He also draws attention to how societal norms and advertising have historically influenced women’s smoking behavior. “Tobacco companies once marketed cigarettes to women as symbols of empowerment and liberation. Unfortunately, this portrayal led many to underestimate the health risks,” he notes.

In certain cultures, smoking among women may be normalized or not taken seriously, which further prevents intervention and support.

<h4>Empowering Women Through Awareness and Support</h4>

“Women face unique challenges when it comes to tobacco use, and we must address them with empathy and targeted strategies,” Dr. Rajpurohit concludes. On World <span>No Tobacco Day</span>, he urges women to seek help and become aware of the specific risks they face.

For those struggling with tobacco addiction, he recommends consulting healthcare professionals and exploring support systems that cater specifically to women’s needs. “The goal is not just to quit but to stay tobacco-free for life,” he says.

world no tobacco day 2025

world no tobacco day

no tobacco day

tobacco day

smoking kills

On World No Tobacco Day, Dr. Sajjan Rajpurohit, Senior Director of Medical Oncology at BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, sheds light on how tobacco affects women differently than men. While the overall dangers of smoking are well known, Dr. Rajpurohit emphasizes the need to understand the biological, hormonal, and social dimensions that make women more vulnerable to tobacco-related diseases and challenges in quitting.Biological Differences Make Women More Sensitive to Nicotine“Women metabolize nicotine more slowly than men, which results in prolonged exposure to its harmful effects,” says Dr. Rajpurohit. This slower metabolism, combined with hormonal changes across a woman’s life—such as during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause—can heighten nicotine’s addictive properties.For instance, estrogen, a key female hormone, may increase sensitivity to nicotine, making it harder for women to quit. “This also explains why withdrawal symptoms might be more severe in women,” he adds.Higher Risk of Certain DiseasesWomen who smoke are more susceptible to certain diseases than their male counterparts, warns Dr. Rajpurohit.Lung CancerThough men historically had higher rates of lung cancer, the gap has narrowed as more women took up smoking. “Women are not only developing lung cancer at younger ages, but they may also face more aggressive forms of the disease,” he says, pointing to biological differences in lung structure and function.Heart DiseaseSmoking significantly raises the risk of heart disease in women, especially those using hormonal contraceptives. “Smoking can cause the arteries to harden and increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. When combined with birth control pills, the risk becomes even higher,” he explains.Reproductive and Pregnancy ComplicationsSmoking affects fertility and reproductive health. It can lead to complications such as ectopic pregnancies, miscarriage, preterm delivery, and low birth weight. “Women in their childbearing years should be especially cautious, as smoking during this period can have lasting effects on both the mother and child,” Dr. Rajpurohit stresses.He also highlights severe pregnancy-related risks like placental abruption (where the placenta detaches from the uterus) and placenta previa (when the placenta blocks the cervix), both of which can endanger maternal and fetal health.Hormonal Imbalance and Fertility IssuesNicotine disrupts hormonal balance, impacting ovulation and menstrual cycles. Women who smoke often report irregular periods and find it more difficult to conceive. “The damage is not just temporary—prolonged tobacco use can lead to long-term reproductive challenges,” says Dr. Rajpurohit.Why Women Find It Harder to QuitQuitting smoking can be a more difficult journey for women due to psychological, hormonal, and social factors.“Many women smoke to manage stress, anxiety, or depression. This emotional dependence can complicate their efforts to quit,” Dr. Rajpurohit explains. Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can also influence cravings and mood, making it harder to resist smoking.Additionally, women may lack adequate support from family or peers. “Social encouragement plays a huge role in smoking cessation, and women often find themselves without the backing they need,” he says.To help women quit, he recommends a tailored approach involving behavioral therapy, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), and personalized quit plans. “These strategies must take into account individual stressors, emotional needs, and social settings,” he adds.Secondhand Smoke and Societal PressuresWomen are often exposed to secondhand smoke in domestic environments, putting them at risk for the same diseases as smokers. “The dangers of passive smoking are real and can lead to respiratory illness, heart disease, and even pregnancy complications,” says Dr. Rajpurohit.He also draws attention to how societal norms and advertising have historically influenced women’s smoking behavior. “Tobacco companies once marketed cigarettes to women as symbols of empowerment and liberation. Unfortunately, this portrayal led many to underestimate the health risks,” he notes.In certain cultures, smoking among women may be normalized or not taken seriously, which further prevents intervention and support.Empowering Women Through Awareness and Support“Women face unique challenges when it comes to tobacco use, and we must address them with empathy and targeted strategies,” Dr. Rajpurohit concludes. On World No Tobacco Day, he urges women to seek help and become aware of the specific risks they face.For those struggling with tobacco addiction, he recommends consulting healthcare professionals and exploring support systems that cater specifically to women’s needs. “The goal is not just to quit but to stay tobacco-free for life,” he says.

no tobacco day does smoking affect women differently than men?

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World No-Tobacco Day: Quitting Smoking Can Significantly Boost 'Good' Cholesterol And Heart Health

Quick Stories

High PCOS Prevalence Found Among Young Women In Delhi, Finds Study

Doctors Removed 210cm Long Hairball From Teen's Stomach

Surviving Skin Cancer Inspired This Mother To Develop Protective Vests To Cut Melanoma Risk

Health Conditions A-Z

Core Yoga Poses That Can Help You Boost Your Functional Strength

Ayurvedic Fruit That Can Help You With Hair Growth And Better Your Digestive Health

High PCOS Prevalence Found Among Young Women In Delhi, Finds Study