Tuesday, September 22, 2015

ANOTHER REASON TO QUIT: SMOKING AND SECOND-HAND SMOKE INCREASE DIABETES RISK

The links between smoking and increased risk for cancer and respiratory and cardiovascular disease are well-known, but the association between smoking and diabetes has received less attention.  A new analysis of 88 existing studies that included almost six million people has found that current smokers and people exposed to secondhand smoke have a significantly increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.  The good news is that after quitting, over time the risk for diabetes decreases. 

The study found a dose-response relationship between smoking and diabetes risk. Compared with those who have never smoked, light smokers have a 21% increased risk of type 2 diabetes, moderate smokers have a 34% increased risk, and heavy smokers have a 57% increased risk.  Those who do not smoke but are regularly exposed to second hand smoke have a 22% increased risk of type 2 diabetes.  Diabetes risk among quitters does substantially decline over time.  Among those who quit within the past 5 to 9 years their increased risk falls to 18% and among those who have quit a decade ago or more saw their smoking related diabetes risk fall to 11%.   

What to do:  If you smoke, try to quit.  Previous unsuccessful efforts to quit do not mean that you cannot succeed.  Keep trying.  Discuss smoking cessation treatment options with your healthcare provider.  Check out www.nyc.gov/nycquits or call x311 to learn about the many free resources available including local tobacco cessation programs & support groups, and free nicotine patches.

Adapted from articles available at:

Sources:
Pan A, Wang Y, Talaei M.  Relation of active, passive, and quitting smoking with incident type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. The Lancet:  Diabetes & Endocrinology.  Published online ahead of print Sept. 17, 2015. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2213-8587(15)00316-2.

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