Smoking Signposting
Here's the bad news...
People with diabetes who smoke are: three times more likely to die of heart disease than people with diabetes who do not smoke; more likely to develop nephropathy (kidney damage);
AND THERE IS MORE BAD NEWS…
Smoking damages blood vessels which can worsen foot ulcers, making them less likely to heal. Smoking decreases the amount of oxygen reaching the tissues of the body, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke and Smoking increases your chances of developing many different types of cancer as well as lung disease andSmoking raises your blood sugar level, making it harder to control your diabetes.
Did you know that as well as all the above cigarettes contain more than 4,000 poisonous chemicals?
So that’s the bad news…. Let’s look at the good!
WHY STOP?
People with diabetes are advised to have good blood sugar control, eat healthily and take regular exercise. In addition, giving up smoking is one of the most beneficial things people with diabetes can do!
After 20 minutes: Your blood pressure and pulse return to normal. Circulation in your hands and feet improves.
After 8 hours: Your blood oxygen levels return to normal and your chance of having a heart attack falls.
After 24 hours: Carbon monoxide leaves your body. Your lungs start to clear out mucus and debris.
After 48 hours: Your body is now free of nicotine. Your sense of taste and smell improves.
After 72 hours: Your breathing is easier and energy levels begin to increase.
After 2-12 weeks: Circulation is improved throughout your body, making it easier to walk and exercise.
After 3-9 months: Your lung function increases by 5-10%. Breathing problems are reduced (e.g. coughing, shortness of breath and wheezing).
After 5 years: Your risk of a heart attack falls to about half that of a smoker.After 10 years: Your risk of getting lung cancer falls to about half that of a smoker. Your chances of having a heart attack are now the same as someone who has never smoked.
THINKING ABOUT QUITTING?
Giving up smoking can be hard so how can you increase your chances of success? Going cold turkey and quitting without support is the least successful way of doing it. Using a stop smoking treatment can double your chances of quitting!
Why not try contacting Jersey’s ‘Help 2 Quit’ free service.
Call Free phone: 0800 735 1155
BECOME A SUPPORTER
Our members are at the heart of what we do. We support each other and share our experiences.
DONATE
Find out how you can make a donation to Diabetes Jersey.
LEAFLETS
See our leaflets here.
