Smoking-Related Health Problems Unique to Women

Smoking habits and attitudes among women and teenage girls have differed in the past from the habits and attitudes among men and teenage boys. Women tended to smoke fewer cigarettes, were less likely to inhale, and were more likely to smoke low “tar” and nicotine and filter-tipped brands. Surveys have indicated, however, that the smoking habits of women are becoming more like men’s, Women are taking up the habit at an earlier age and have become heavier smokers. This has made them more vulnerable not only to lung cancer and other smoking-related diseases, but also to specific health problems that are unique to their sex. For example, research on the relationship between cigarette smoking and the outcome of pregnancy has established that there are definite risks to both the fetus and the mother associated with cigarette smoking during pregnancy. Moreover, women who use oral contraceptives are at greater risk of cardiovascular disease if they smoke cigarettes. There is also evidence that nicotine is present in the breast milk of lactating mothers who smoke. The following is a review of the current information on these and other health consequences of smoking unique to women.