The Hazards of Smoking Cigars

The hazards of smoking cigars might be lost on the average peruser of cigar-themed magazines, where movie stars like Pierce Brosnan and Catherine Zeta-Jones make cigar smoking look glamorous. The American Cancer Society, however, claims that one large cigar is the equivalent of an entire pack of cigarettes. If you smoke cigars regularly, you're at risk of the same health hazards a habitual cigarette smoker faces.

Cancer

• Most cigar users don't inhale. Compared to non-smokers, though, regular cigar smokers are still four to 10 times more likely to die from cancer of the mouth, larynx and esophagus, says the American Cancer Society. Cigar smoking is also linked to other types of cancer, including cancer of the lungs, esophagus and pancreas.

Other Health Concerns

• Heart and lung disease can also result from smoking cigars, according to the American Cancer Society. Although cigar smokers are less at risk for heart disease and lung diseases, like emphysema and chronic bronchitis, compared to cigarette smokers, they're still at greater risk than non-smokers.

Cosmetic Concerns

• Gum disease is another hazard of smoking cigars. This condition causes the gums to recede from the teeth. Smoking any tobacco product also affects the skin and causes premature wrinkles and lines.

Secondhand Smoke

• Cigar smoke contains more cancer-causing agents, more tar and higher level of toxins, making it more potent than cigarette smoke. Because cigars have a less porous wrapper and burn more slowly than cigarettes, secondhand smoke can fill a room and make it difficult to air out. Secondhand, or "passive," smoke can be equally as dangerous to non-smokers.