Smoking and Vaping: Hidden Dangers to Your Heart
Nearly one-third of premature deaths are linked to smoking and secondhand smoke.
Even though many people know about the dangers, a large number still inhale these harmful chemicals.
In Hawai‘i, about 13 percent of adults and 5 percent of youth smoke cigarettes.
How Nicotine Damages the Heart
Cigarette smoke contains hundreds of toxic chemicals.
One of the most harmful is nicotine, a strong addictive substance found in tobacco.
Nicotine increases your heart rate and blood pressure, narrows the arteries, and forces your heart to work harder.
Over time, this raises the risk of heart attacks and other serious heart diseases.
Nicotine can also damage blood vessels, increase cholesterol buildup, and cause atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).
Even small amounts can harm the cardiovascular system.
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The Risks of Vaping
Vaping is often seen as safer than smoking, but it is not harmless.
E-cigarettes create an aerosol that contains nicotine, flavoring chemicals, and tiny particles that can damage the lungs and heart.
These substances are linked to heart disease, lung damage, and addiction.
Research shows that people who use e-cigarettes are more likely to experience heart attacks than non-users.
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Why You Should Quit
Quitting smoking or vaping can improve your health and save your life.
It lowers your risk of heart disease and stroke, improves lung function, and protects your family from secondhand smoke.
It is never too late to quit. Your body begins healing within hours after your last cigarette.
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Steps to Quit
1. Set a quit date and plan ahead.
2. Tell your family and friends for support.
3. Replace smoking with healthy habits such as exercise or relaxation.
4. Seek advice from a healthcare professional.
5. Stay motivated and remind yourself why you want to quit.
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Final Message
Both smoking and vaping are harmful to your heart and overall health.
Quitting may be difficult, but every day you stay smoke-free, your body becomes stronger and healthier.
Start today and give your heart the chance to heal.
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