In 1964, the U.S. Surgeon General first reported that smoking is hazardous to your health . Yet today, millions of Americans still smoke. If you smoke, your chance of getting lung cancer , the leading cause of cancer death in men and women, is 10 times greater than a nonsmoker. You are also twice as likely to have a heart attack .
Smoking is also the major cause of cancer of the mouth , larynx , throat , and esophagus .
It also has been linked to cancers of the kidney , bladder , and pancreas . Men and women who smoke are also prone to develop lifelong conditions such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema . By stopping smoking , you can greatly reduce your risk of developing lung cancer and other respiratory ailments. For more information on the effects of smoking and cessation tips, talk with your doctor. Smoking also poses special dangers during pregnancy .