5 Facts about the Dangers of Nicotine for Health

Nicotine is one of the dangerous substances in cigarettes. When consumed, this substance can cause reduced appetite, increased heart rate and blood pressure, as well as symptoms of nausea and diarrhea.

Apart from that, the nicotine contained in cigarettes also has various other effects on the body. The following is five information regarding the risks of nicotine in cigarettes that has been summarized by Tempo. co from various references:

Resulting in cancer.

According to Healthline, nicotine has an impact on the body through chemical processes that stimulate the release of dopamine into the nervous system. Recent research indicates that nicotine may contribute to the development of cancer. In small amounts, nicotine can speed up the cell growth process. At higher amounts, nicotine can be toxic to cells. Nicotine triggers a process known as the transition from the epithelium to the mesenchyme (EMT). This stage is one of the crucial processes in the development of cancer cells. Nicotine can stimulate the development of cancer in the breast, colon, and lungs. Apart from that, nicotine can also reduce the effectiveness of cancer therapy.

Resulting in heart problems.

Based on information from the American Heart Association, both smoking and exposure to cigarette smoke can be factors causing a third of deaths related to heart disease. The nicotine contained in cigarettes can cause an increase in blood pressure, an increase in heart rate, more blood flow to the heart, and narrowing of the arteries. Nicotine can also cause thickening of the artery walls, which ultimately has the potential to trigger a heart attack. This chemical can stay in the body for six to eight hours, depending on the duration of smoking.

Reduces bone strength

Based on an explanation from the orthopedic surgeon at UCI Health, Russell Stitzlein, smoking can increase the risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures, as well as inhibit the healing process of injuries to the musculoskeletal system. According to the official UCI Health website, the presence of nicotine in cigarettes can inhibit the formation of bone-forming cells known as osteoblasts. In addition, smoking can also slow blood flow to bones and body tissues, reduce calcium absorption which is important for vital cell function and bone health, and affect hormones needed to maintain skeletal strength in both men and women.

Impact on fetal and infant health.

According to a report from Medical News Today, nicotine can cause narrowing of blood vessels. During pregnancy, exposure to inhaled nicotine can interfere with the flow of oxygen and nutrients that the fetus should receive. Nicotine quickly penetrates the placental barrier and can be detected in the fetal circulation and amniotic fluid. However, until now there is still no information regarding the amount of nicotine in vitro considered