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.
Tobacco smoking effects the unborn child.
Women who smoke during pregnancy have smaller babies on average than do non-smokers. There is an increased risk of premature births and a greater occurrence of miscarriages and stillbirths. Tobacco can lead to physical and psychological dependence. Tobacco smokers develop a craving for nicotine. This makes stopping smoking difficult.