Is Smoking in Intervals Worse for Diabetics? the Risks

Smoking and then relighting (more than once)?

Hello doctor, my family member has diabetes and wants to smoke but doesn't want to smoke too much.
They take a few puffs, extinguish the cigarette, then smoke again after a while...
Is this more harmful to the body compared to smoking a whole cigarette at once?

Dà Bái, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/03/20

Dr. Li Jian reply Internal Medicine

Smoking and diabetes can both lead to vascular stiffness.
It is recommended to quit smoking as much as possible.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2024/03/20

More Info

Smoking is a well-known risk factor for numerous health issues, particularly for individuals with diabetes. The question of whether intermittent smoking (taking a few puffs, extinguishing the cigarette, and then repeating) is worse for diabetics compared to smoking a whole cigarette at once is complex and requires a nuanced understanding of the effects of smoking on health.

First, it’s essential to recognize that smoking, in any form, is detrimental to health. For diabetics, the risks are amplified due to the already compromised vascular health associated with diabetes. Smoking contributes to the development of cardiovascular diseases, which are already a significant concern for individuals with diabetes. The combination of smoking and diabetes can lead to increased blood pressure, higher cholesterol levels, and greater arterial stiffness, all of which can exacerbate the complications associated with diabetes.

When considering the method of smoking—whether it’s intermittent or continuous—the harmful effects of tobacco exposure remain. Each time a person smokes, they introduce harmful chemicals into their body, including nicotine, tar, and carbon monoxide. These substances can lead to oxidative stress and inflammation, which are particularly harmful to individuals with diabetes. The intermittent approach may seem less harmful because it reduces the total exposure time, but it does not eliminate the risks associated with each smoking episode.

Moreover, the act of smoking, regardless of the frequency, can lead to cravings and a cycle of addiction that is difficult to break. Intermittent smoking may also create a false sense of security, leading individuals to believe that they are not as adversely affected as they would be with continuous smoking. This mindset can hinder efforts to quit smoking altogether, which is the most beneficial choice for health.

From a medical perspective, it is crucial to emphasize that the best course of action for someone with diabetes who smokes is to quit entirely. There are various resources available, including smoking cessation programs, nicotine replacement therapies, and counseling, which can provide support and strategies for quitting. For diabetics, quitting smoking can lead to significant improvements in blood sugar control, reduced risk of complications, and overall better health outcomes.

In conclusion, while intermittent smoking may seem less harmful than smoking a whole cigarette at once, it still poses significant risks, especially for individuals with diabetes. The best approach is to seek help in quitting smoking entirely, as this will provide the greatest health benefits and reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes. If your family member is considering quitting, it would be beneficial to consult with healthcare professionals who can provide tailored advice and support for managing both diabetes and smoking cessation.

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