It is estimated that about 23 out of 100 English women smoke regularly. A majority of women smokers in the UK are aged between 20-34. These facts point to interesting conclusions about smoking issues. First, looking into the average age group of young smokers, it can be said that most of them pick up the habit during their teens. Second, the fact that there are about 25% male smokers in the country goes to show that women are almost on equal terms with their male counterparts – a comparison that does not sound too promising in view of the healthcare scenario in Great Britain. Smoking can cause plenty of health issues for women, and experts believe that women are at greater risk of developing adverse health conditions because of nicotine addiction, as compared to men.

Dangers of nicotine beyond lung cancer

Lung cancer is the most widespread consequence of tobacco addiction. While lung cancer is the biggest killer across both male and female smokers, statistics reveal that the incidence of breast cancer is Higher in women who smoke than those who don’t smoke. The alarming news is that many women are not even aware that smoking can increase the risk of cancerous diseases.

Be it a male smoker or a female smoker, early signs of ageing and wrinkle marks on the skin are major implications of prolonged addiction to cigarettes. A study involving twin sisters showed that continuous smoking for 18-20 years can have major impacts on the appearance of the woman who is a smoker. Stained teeth and heavy wrinkle marks are the two most visible consequences of nicotine addiction.

If not for stained teeth or the fear of cancer, the impact of smoking on fertility should make you stay away from cigarettes. Unlike a man, a woman needs to be mindful of the fact that she has to go through her gestation period at some point in her life. So she must consider the risks associated with smoking with regard to her fertility. It is reported that excessive smoking damage the ovaries, which may lead to miscarriages and stillbirths. Besides, smoking also heightens the risk of cervical cancer in women. According to a report published in the British Medical Journal, probability of conception in a smoking woman is reduced by 40% compared to a non-smoking woman. For a woman it is important to quit smoking well before pregnancy in order to lessen the risk associated with ovarian damage. Experts have always reiterated that the toxins present in cigarettes can cause a fair bit of damage to the ovaries. Also, excessive smoking can cause hormonal imbalance, leading to irregular periods and anovulatory cycles.

Break the smoky jinx with Champix

Fortunately, you can stop smoking with the help of a prescription medication known as Champix varenicline. It can be taken by most people over the age of 18 years. However, Champix tablets are inadvisable for women who are pregnant or nursing. Talk to a doctor today to find out whether or not this smoking cessation medication is suitable for you.