Drinking and Smoking Pose Serious Health Risks
In this newsletter we’ve focused on the multitude of health benefits derived from exercise. But even the most successful exercise plan can’t undo the adverse effects of smoking and alcohol abuse. Consider these associated health risks:
Cigarette smoking
Alcohol abuse
At Women’s Care, we believe that two of the most important things a woman can do for her health are to quit smoking and to drink moderately if at all. Of course, pregnant women should never consume alcohol. If you’d like to quit smoking or drinking, please talk with your physician. You may also contact these organizations:
Cigarette smoking
- Contributes to many types of cancer, including lung, breast and cervical
- Increases risk of heart disease and stroke
- Contributes to emphysema and chronic bronchitis
- Increases risk of osteoporosis
- Affects pregnancy outcomes, including low birth rate and premature birth
- Creates a second-hand exposure risk
Alcohol abuse
- During pregnancy contributes to fetal alcohol syndrome and birth defects
- Can cause chronic liver disease
- Contributes to a variety of cancers
- Often leads to alcoholism
- Contributes to injuries, accidents, auto collisions and violence
- Decreases birth control compliance and safe sex behaviors
- Increases risk for sexually transmitted diseases
- Can contribute to a depressed immune system
- Can contribute to damage to the central nervous system
At Women’s Care, we believe that two of the most important things a woman can do for her health are to quit smoking and to drink moderately if at all. Of course, pregnant women should never consume alcohol. If you’d like to quit smoking or drinking, please talk with your physician. You may also contact these organizations:
- Emerald Valley Intergroup of Alcoholics Anonymous
www.efn.org/~eviaa
342-4113 - Oregon Tobacco Quit Line
www.oregonquitline.org
English: 1-877-270-7867 (toll-free)
Spanish: 1-877-266-3863 (toll-free)
