Substance Avoidance: Tobacco
Eliminate tobacco exposure. Lower cardiometabolic risk.
The most impactful step for cardiometabolic health : Tobacco Avoidance
Smoking
Damages More Than Just Lungs
Affects Your Heart & Metabolism
- Damages blood vessels
- Raises blood pressure
- Accelerates atherosclerosis (plaque build up in the arteries)
- Nicotine increases insulin resistance and abdominal fat
Increases Risk For:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Peripheral artery disease
- DIabetes Mellitus
Don’t Let Smoke Wreck Your Heart & Life!
Smoking & Heart Attack (Coronary Heart Disease)
Smoking doubles heart attack risk.
Cardiovascular Risk:
- Coronary heart disease risk increases by ~80–150%.
- Risk remains substantial even at low levels of smoking.
- Even 1 cigarette per day carries ~40–50% of the excess cardiovascular risk.
- When combined with diabetes, risk is further amplified.
One of the most important heart-healthy choices: Quitting smoking.
Smoking & Diabetes
Smoking increases diabetes risk
Risk of Diabetes
- Increases by ~30–40%.
- Risk increases with greater exposure to tobacco.
- Heavy smoking (>20 cigarettes/day): ~60% higher risk.
- Smoking and diabetes together markedly amplify cardiovascular risk.
Quit tobacco. Lower risk. Protect long-term health.
Benefits of Quitting
- Within 20 minutes: Heart rate and blood pressure drop.
- Within 2–12 weeks: Circulation begins to improve.
- Within 1 year: Heart disease risk drops by 50%.
- Long-term: Risk of cardiovascular death returns close to that of a non-smoker.
Need Help Quitting ?
- Text QUIT to 47848 – SmokefreeTXT (U.S. service)
- Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW – Free quit coaching, support, and resources
One decision. Lasting impact on long-term health.
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This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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“Aikyaa” refers to Aikyaa Heart Health & Wellness PLLC.