Tobacco smoke has an immediate affect on health. Nicotine increases the heart rate and causes a slight increase in blood pressure. Skin temperature is lowered and appetite lost. Also physical endurance is lessened. Tobacco smoking increases the risk of major health problems.
Tobacco smoking is the main cause of lung cancer and also cancer of the mouth and larynx.
Breathing diseases such as bronchitis, emphysema and asthma are much more likely to occur in smokers than non-smokers. Blockages of blood vessels in the heart muscle and brain are more likely. Such blockages increase the risk of serious heart attacks. The effectiveness of the smoker's immune system is reduced. Tobacco smoking also increases the likelihood of stomach ulcers.