Women smokers who use contraceptive pills are 10 to 20 times more likely to suffer from heart disease and are at greatly increased risk for stroke than non-smokers. Cigarette smoking has recently been associated with cancer of the cervix, a disease likely to strike younger women. Smoking causes reduced estrogen levels in women, thereby contributing to menstrual disorders, early menopause and osteoporosis. If a pregnant woman smokes, the carbon monoxide and nicotine in her bloodstream crosses the placenta and enters the bloodstream of the fetus. This can slow down the development of the fetus, result in lower birth weights and increase the risk of stillbirths and perinatal deaths.
Tobacco use is the leading cause of premature death in Canada and in the world.
Second-hand smoke is harmful to all those exposed to it. We can all help women choose to be tobacco-free. First and foremost, we can give women non-judgmental support in their efforts to quit smoking. We can take a women-centered approach in our prevention and cessation programs. Women deserve to have healthy bodies they feel good about.