Why does smoking cigarettes put you at risk for certain forms of cancer?

Smoking cigarettes puts you at risk for developing certain forms of cancer because of the presence of carcinogens in tobacco smoke. Carcinogens are substances that can damage DNA and lead to the development of cancer.

When you inhale cigarette smoke, you are exposing your lungs to a variety of carcinogens, including:

* Arsenic

* Benzene

* Cadmium

* Formaldehyde

* Naphthalene

* Tar

These carcinogens can damage the cells in your lungs and lead to the development of lung cancer. In addition, smoking cigarettes can also increase your risk of developing:

* Bladder cancer

* Cervical cancer

* Esophageal cancer

* Kidney cancer

* Leukemia

* Oral cancer

* Pancreatic cancer

* Stomach cancer

* Throat cancer

The risk of developing cancer from smoking cigarettes increases the more you smoke and the longer you smoke. Quitting smoking, even after years of smoking, can help to reduce your risk of developing cancer.

Here are some additional reasons why smoking cigarettes puts you at risk for cancer:

* Cigarette smoke damages DNA. The carcinogens in cigarette smoke can damage the DNA in your cells. This damage can lead to the development of cancer.

* Cigarette smoke weakens the immune system. Smoking cigarettes can weaken your immune system, making it less able to fight off cancer cells.

* Cigarette smoke promotes inflammation. Smoking cigarettes can cause inflammation in the body. Inflammation is a risk factor for cancer.

If you are concerned about your risk of developing cancer, talk to your doctor. They can help you to assess your risk and develop a plan to reduce your risk.