Smoking and Diabetes: Expert Warns About Dangers of Cigarettes and Vapes

Smoking increases risk of amputations and serious complications in people with diabetes, study finds The content Smoking and diabetes: an expert warns of the dangers of cigarettes and vapes appears first on Um Diabético.

With the rise of e-cigarette use, popularly known as “vapes” and “pods,” the debate over the health impacts of smoking has taken on new directions. While conventional cigarettes have been known for decades as major health offenders, vaporizers have emerged as a seemingly less harmful alternative. However, the growing popularity of these devices is revealing new concerns, especially for those living with chronic conditions such as diabetes.

Risks of smoking for those with diabetes

Smoking has always been a significant risk factor for a variety of health problems, but for people with diabetes the dangers are even greater. Studies indicate that smoking can worsen blood sugar control, increasing the risk of serious complications such as cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, and kidney problems. Nicotine, found in both traditional cigarettes and vapes, can hinder the action of insulin, which is especially concerning for diabetics who rely on the hormone to control their blood sugar levels.

In an interview with “Portal um Diabético”, Dr. Suzianne Lima, a pulmonologist and member of the scientific committee on smoking of the Brazilian Society of Pulmonology and Phthisiology, explained that “smoking can increase blood sugar levels, reduce blood flow to the feet and increase the risk of damage to the kidneys and eyes.”

The expert also warns that for people with type 2 diabetes, smoking can significantly increase the risk of amputations, increasing the complications of the disease. “Regular cigarette consumption can cause the body’s cells to develop resistance to insulin, reducing blood flow to the feet and leading to the so-called diabetic foot,” he stressed.

Vape vs Cigarettes

While many people see vapes as a safer alternative to cigarettes, this perception is dangerously misleading, especially for young people with diabetes. Dr. Suzianne Lima warns that while vapes may seem less harmful, they also contain substances that can be toxic to the body. “Vaporizers contain nicotine and more than 2,000 chemicals that are inflammatory, can cause cancer, and can alter glucose levels,” she said, stressing that vaping is in no way a safer option for diabetics.

Combining e-cigarette use with a lifestyle already compromised by diabetes can create a vicious cycle of health deterioration. Just like traditional cigarettes, vapes can contribute to increased insulin resistance, further aggravating the conditions of diabetics.

Awareness and education: the key to prevention

Education about the harmful effects of cigarettes and vaping should be a central element of public health strategies, with the aim of reducing the incidence of serious complications and improving the quality of life of those living with diabetes.

Dr. Suzianne Lima concludes with an appeal: “Smokers with diabetes should be encouraged to stop smoking and remain abstinent for a prolonged period of time to reduce their vascular risk to the level of non-smokers.” She stresses the importance of seeking treatment, both in the public and private networks, to effectively combat smoking, reducing the symptoms of withdrawal syndrome and, consequently, the risks associated with diabetes. “Diabetes and smoking do not go together,” she concludes.

Smoking, whether traditional or through vaping, presents serious health risks to anyone, but the effects are even more devastating for those living with diabetes. Quitting smoking is essential to maintaining health and preventing serious complications. Awareness and access to specialized treatments are essential to help diabetics overcome addiction and live a better quality of life.

Learn more about diabetes by watching the video below:

The content Smoking and Diabetes: An Expert Warns of the Dangers of Cigarettes and Vapes appears first on Um Diabético.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.