Cigarette smoking is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, smoking increases your risk of developing heart disease and stroke, and increases your chances of having a heart attack. However, there is one misconception about smoking and cardiovascular disease that is false.

The false statement is: “Smoking effects appear to decrease about 10 years after tobacco use…” This statement is false because the damage caused by smoking can be longer lasting and more serious than what may happen in the short-term. As noted by Johns Hopkins Medicine, cigarette smokers are two to four times more likely to get heart disease than nonsmokers, and that risk doubles a person’s chance for stroke and heart attack.

Smoking also takes a toll on the blood vessels, which can cause other health conditions such as peripheral vascular disease (PVD) or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Furthermore, smoking increases the risk of sudden cardiac death and worsens existing heart conditions. Therefore, it is important to note that the effects of smoking on cardiovascular health can be long-lasting and potentially irreversible.

In summary, smoking is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and can have serious health consequences that can last longer than 10 years. Quitting smoking is the best way to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Those who quit smoking can reduce their risk of heart attack and stroke by 50% within one year.