Know this: tobacco is not only harmful in itself. It can also, when associated with certain pathologies, increase their power of nuisance tenfold. This is the case, for example, for arterial hypertension and… diabetes. A relatively unknown but very real consequence, as Daniel Thomas explains to us.
Tobacco aggravates the dangers of diabetes… and causes it
“Smoking has this particularity, when you are diabetic, to increase overall and very significantly the cardiovascular risks”, immediately explains the professor. But that’s unfortunately not all: smoking, by increasing blood sugar and insulin resistance, is also a cause of the onset of type 2 diabetes. And this in maddening proportions: if all smokers are not diabetic, the risk of becoming one when smoking increases by 44%. It’s significant,” continues the cardiologist before explaining that the problem is as important as it is ignored.
“This is a fact very little known by the population, but also by diabetologists and doctors in general! It is therefore important to relay this information. Diabetic patients can in particular pass the message on to their doctors.” But if knowledge helps, it is also and above all smoking cessation that saves.
Benefits of quitting smoking as soon as possible
The earlier you quit smoking, the lower the risk of cardiovascular complications or the onset of diabetes. However, it is never too late to throw away your last package. Including when smoking for a long time: “Even at 70 or 80, weaning can bring some benefitsconfirms the professor. Especially since there is a form of reversibility. A smoker who has prediabetes and quits smoking will stop his evolution.”
But beware: “Quitting smoking is not easy. Smokers need treatment and support…and I think doctors don’t deal with this problem the way it deserves. Often, tobacco is seen as is the smoker’s problem, he just has to quit. the more we make him feel guilty, the less it helps him. And it’s a shame, because these professionals also deal very well with diabetes or cholesterol.” It is said ! On the occasion of the month without tobaccodo not hesitate to get closer to professionals.
