Family Health Watch: Local News

Being an 'occasional smoker' doesn't cut risks

from NBC News

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By Lisa Rose

Story Updated: Oct 22, 2008

Moderation is not necessarily better when it comes to smoking cigarettes. People who only smoke occasionally are not spared from the damaging effects of cigarettes.

Researchers at the University of Georgia measured blood flow in the arteries of non-smokers, and those who smoked less than a pack a week.

They found occasional smokers were nearly 40 percent less responsive to changes in blood flow. That's an early indicator of artery damage.

Experts say the occasional smokers had not had a cigarette for at least two days before their initial test

Kathy says ...

On Thursday, Oct 23 at 2:06 PM

Commenter

My husband took Chantix & did stop smoking but developed diabetes which is one of the side effects. Be sure to keep an eye on your sugar levels!!

Chantix helped me says ...

On Thursday, Oct 23 at 5:38 AM

Commenter

I smoked for years. I wasn't a heavy smoker just a dedicated one. I took Chantix, and dare I say this is the magic bullet. The side effects are minimal and the worst of them are extremely rare. If you smoke and want to quit but can't - see your doctor and ask for Chantix. Don't put it off. Do it now. It was the best thing I ever did for me and my family.

dpitts says ...

On Thursday, Oct 23 at 12:46 AM

Commenter

arteries damage???????? how about all the fatty meat we eat, fried chicken, fast foods,can anyone say high cholesterol.

Pete says ...

On Wednesday, Oct 22 at 9:15 PM

Commenter

Smokers need to quit to improve their health. Just cutting back a little bit won't cut it. Quit for yourself and your family's future.

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