Photo by Mathew MacQuarrie on Unsplash The effect of smoking goes beyond physical effects like yellowing teeth and bad breath. A single cigarette might seem like a small indulgence, but over the years, smoking can wreak havoc on your body. In this article, we explore how smoking affects your health, the diseases it can cause, its impact on those around you, and practical steps to help you quit.   How Smoking Affects Your Body Over Time Smoking doesn't just hurt your lungs; it affects nearly every part and function of your body: Lungs & Respiratory System: Over time, smoking damages your airways and air sacs. This can lead to chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and even lung cancer. Your lungs lose their ability to clear out harmful substances, making you more susceptible to infections. Heart & Blood Vessels: Smoking increases your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. The chemicals in cigarette smoke can damage the l...