Is Cigar Smoking Less Harmful? Study Clarifies

Over the past few decades, through clever marketing, cigar smoking has gained a rare aura, attracting men and focusing on the image of the upper class, but health experts warn of its effects.

Unlike traditional cigarettes, cigars are made entirely of tobacco leaves, from the inside to the wrapper. But like cigarettes, they contain nicotine and the same cancer-causing compounds found in cigarettes and are not a safe alternative for smokers.

Inhaling Cigarette Smoke

According to "Health Day", experts warn against marketing tactics that make people think that inhaling a little cigar makes it less harmful. Even without inhaling, large amounts of nicotine can be absorbed through the lining of the mouth, and because of nicotine, addiction occurs.

"While cigars and cigarettes are different in production, appearance and consumption, they both pose serious health risks," says Dr. Edwin Lin, a hematologist at BAH Health in California.

Cancer Prevention

"One of the best ways to prevent cancer is to stop smoking and quit as soon as possible," he adds.

A large cigar contains as much tobacco as a pack of cigarettes, according to the American Lung Association. Cigar smokers are 27 times more likely to develop oral cancer than nonsmokers, 15 times more likely to develop esophageal cancer, and 53 times more likely to develop laryngeal cancer, the American Lung Association says.

Cigar smokers are also 4 to 10 times more likely to die from cancer of the mouth, esophagus, or larynx than nonsmokers.

Cigar smoking is also linked to gum disease and tooth loss.

Heart and lung disease

The Mayo Clinic reports that heavy cigar smoking increases the risk of heart and lung diseases, such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

The reports warn of secondhand smoke from cigars: "This type of smoke can cause or contribute to lung cancer and heart disease. It also increases the risk of asthma, ear infections, and respiratory infections in children."