First it makes the lungs work harder because it coats them with tar and causes the lungs to decrease vital activities such as being able to remove harmful dirt and poisons. Second, it causes poisonous gases to enter into the blood stream decreasing the oxygen intake and increasing the carbon monoxide absorbed by the blood cells which deprives the body especially the brain of needed oxygen. Third, it increases the heart rate as well as the blood pressure due to lack of oxygen and the absorbing of over 300 different chemicals into the bloodstream that are found in cigarettes. It has been known to cause anxiety, nervousness and depression in young people and those trying to quit. These are only a few of the things tobacco does to the body of a smoker and those exposed to second-hand smoke.
Smoking is the most preventable cause of death in our society.
Sponsored by the American Cancer Soc.