There is also evidence that smoking is a risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes.
Smoking and Diabetes
Position Statement
from the American Diabetes Association
"Cigarette smoking is the leading avoidable cause of mortality in the U.S., accounting for 434,000 deaths each year. Cigarette smoking accounts for one out of every five deaths in the U.S. and is the most important modifiable cause of premature death. Cigarettes provide the delivery system for nicotine, an addictive substance related to various pharmacological, biochemical, and psychological processes that interact to support a compulsive pattern of drug use."
"...studies of individuals with diabetes consistently found a heightened risk of morbidity and premature death associated with the development of macrovascular complications among smokers.
...Smoking is also related to the premature development of microvascular complications of diabetes and may have a role in the development of type 2 diabetes."
Smoking and Diabetes
with 21 references; from Action on Smoking and Health, November 2002
"In the light of the growing evidence demonstrating that smoking is an independent risk factor for diabetes and that it is also an aggravating factor for diabetes complications, smoking cessation advice should be a routine component of diabetic care. Concerns about weight gain should be addressed by health care providers whilst emphasising the fact that the health benefits of smoking cessation far outweigh post cessation weight gain, even in people who are focused on weight management."
Management of Diabetes in the Elderly
Jeffrey I. Wallace, MD, MPH.
Clinical Diabetes, 1999
"The health benefits of tobacco cessation begin within 3-6 months and extend from reduced atherosclerotic disease and lower cancer rates to improved lung function. Smoking and diabetes are synergistic risk factors for atherosclerotic disease. All possible measures should be used to prevent and encourage discontinuation of tobacco use."
Tobacco Control
from the American Lung Association. Includes a
Quit Smoking Action Plan.
Cotinine Testing
from
Foundation for Blood Research
"Cotinine [COAT-e-neen] is a chemical that is made by the body from nicotine, which is found in cigarette smoke. Since cotinine can only be made from nicotine, and since nicotine enters the body with cigarette smoke, cotinine measurements can show how much cigarette smoke enters your body."
