Smoking In Women: While smoking is harmful to everyone, women experience certain physiological differences that can exacerbate the negative effects of tobacco use, particularly concerning cardiovascular health. Women are more susceptible to the adverse effects of smoking due to the interaction between nicotine and oestrogen, a hormone that plays a vital role in protecting the heart. 

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Udgeath Dhir, Senior Director, Cardiothoracic Vascular Surgery, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram explained that nicotine has been shown to reduce oestrogen levels, thereby diminishing its protective effect on the cardiovascular system.

This reduction leads to an increased risk of developing conditions such as atherosclerosis, where the arteries harden and narrow, leading to heart disease and stroke. Additionally, the smaller diameter of women's arteries compared to men's makes them more prone to blockages, which can further elevate the risk of heart attacks.

How Smoking Affects Woman's Health?

Smoking has a more pronounced impact on women’s respiratory health. Studies have shown that women who smoke are more likely to develop chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) at an earlier age and with lower levels of cigarette exposure than men. This heightened vulnerability to respiratory diseases not only affects lung function but also places additional strain on the heart, leading to a higher likelihood of developing cardiovascular complications.

It is also important to note the reproductive and long-term health consequences of smoking in women. Smoking can lead to complications in pregnancy, such as premature birth and low birth weight, and increases the risk of osteoporosis and early menopause. These factors, coupled with the cardiovascular risks, highlight the profound impact that smoking has on a woman's overall health.

Quitting smoking is the most effective step a woman can take to protect her heart and overall health. The benefits of quitting are almost immediate and continue to grow over time, significantly reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other smoking-related conditions.

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