Smoking increases heart attack and stroke risk by up to four times

Cardiology expert Associate Professor Cafer Panç has warned that smoking and electronic tobacco products can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke by two to four times. While public perception often focuses on the respiratory effects of smoking, Panç emphasizes the severe and immediate damage caused to the circulatory system.

Tobacco use triggers several mechanisms of vascular damage, including endothelial damage to the inner walls of blood vessels and increased inflammation, both of which contribute to the development of atherosclerosis.

Global statistics indicate that cardiovascular diseases remain a leading cause of death, claiming approximately 20 million lives annually. Of these, tobacco consumption is responsible for roughly 7 million deaths per year. Experts note that even a single cigarette can cause significant damage, potentially accounting for 40% to 50% of the risk associated with a full pack.