Women and Smoking

Most of us think that smoking is equally damaging to both sexes, but the results of several recent studies are showing that cigarettes are deadlier for women than men. Females are already twice as likely to develop depression as males, but female smokers are at even greater risk. Furthermore, cigarettes put women at greater risk for osteoporosis and heart disease, doubling the chance of a heart attack and tripling the risk of cardiovascular disease. Women smokers have double the risk of developing cervical cancer, and, if they smoked during pregnancy, their baby is more apt to suffer from health problems and more likely to become a smoker. In addition, it appears that women smokers are more likely to develop lung cancer than men: Their death rate from lung cancer has steadily increased since the 60s and has surpassed breast cancer as the leading cause of cancer death among women.

So what's the good news in all this? Fortunately, there are numerous tools at a woman's disposal to help her quit smoking. Acupuncture is an extremely helpful and effective tool. It stimulates the body to release endorphins, which helps to counteract depression and replaces a synthetic high with a natural one during the withdrawal process. Acupuncture brings about a deep sense of relaxation and ease, dramatically reducing stress levels in what can be a very stressful endeavor.Other tools that help the stop-smoking process are exercise, which not only lifts the spirits, but also counteracts weight gain; making sure that the time chosen is not premenstrual, when more depression and stronger withdrawal symptoms are apt to be experienced; and having a support system, like a friend who is also interested in quitting.

If you would like to stop smoking and want to know more about how acupuncture can help in this process, or if you have a health condition that is causing you concern, you are welcome to call me for a free phone consultation at 858/673-1397.


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Rancho Bernardo Sun/ Diamond Gateway Signature
June 2001