Smoking harms memory and cognitive performance, and at high levels can disrupt nerve function. Reports reference health agencies about the risks associated with nicotine and tobacco use.
World No Tobacco Day is observed each year on May 31, highlighting the health impacts of smoking and the need for prevention, cessation support, and smoke-free environments.
Nicotine exposure over time can lead to a state of repeated chemical absorption that resembles chronic intoxication. In this state, memory recall and mental sharpness may decline, and tasks that require sustained attention can become more difficult for some individuals.
The influence of nicotine reaches multiple body systems. It acts as a neurotoxin that stimulates the nervous system, can interfere with breathing, raises blood pressure, and, in large amounts, may temporarily impair neural signaling. These effects contribute to broader health concerns, including cardiovascular and respiratory function, especially among habitual users.
Earlier medical professionals and researchers have pointed out that smoking contributes to a higher risk of lung cancer and other serious diseases. The pattern of tobacco use is linked with harmful changes in the lungs and airways, emphasizing the importance of avoiding or quitting smoking to reduce long-term health risks.