20th February 2024

Epidemiology

Approximately 14-15% of the UK population smokes and has declined over the decades. The incidence of smoking continues to increase in the developing world. 

Smoking behaviour occurs due to a mix of genetic, behavioural, social and environmental factors. Risk factors for increased smoking include social deprivation, mental illness, and previous/current substance use. Nicotine stimulates nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, and its action within the mesolimbic dopaminergic system results in addiction. Nicotine withdrawal occurs after smoking cessation and presents with depressed mood, irritability, anxiety, restlessness, cravings and increased appetite. 

Smoking results in the inhalation of many carcinogens and mutagens. The substances also stimulate immune system activation and enzyme release within the alveolar tissues, leading to elastin destruction.