20th February 2024

Co-morbidities related to smoking

Smoking is the leading cause of cancer in the UK, with up to 15% of cancers caused by smoking. It is also the leading cause of premature and preventable deaths in the UK. 

Lung cancer, peripheral vascular disease and COPD are responsible for up to 70% of all deaths attributed towards smoking. It is also associated with pregnancy complications and foetal complications. Vascular complications from smoking have been attributed towards an increased rate of cardiovascular disease, decreased wound healing and subsequently wound infection and prolonged hospital stays.

Second-hand smoking is associated with asthma and a small risk of cancer.