Smoking Cessation

Smoking is unhealthy for people without diabetes and is even more dangerous for people with diabetes. Studies have shown that people with diabetes who smoke have an increased risk for complications like heart disease and the early development of long-term complications such as kidney disease or nerve damage. If you are serious about quitting, take a look at our online resources, then talk to your doctor or Rite Aid Pharmacist about forming a plan and taking action.

Effects of Smoking on People with Diabetes

• Raises blood glucose levels
• Increases blood pressure
• Increases total cholesterol and reduces HDL
• Increases risk for heart attack, stroke, and blood vessel disease. Individuals with diabetes who smoke are three times as likely to die of heart disease as are other people with diabetes
• Narrows blood vessels affecting circulation. This can worsen foot ulcers and prevent skin infections from healing
• Increases risk for underweight or premature babies, stillbirths and miscarriages
• Increases risk for colds and respiratory infections
• Increases risk for nerve problems and kidney disease
• Increases risk for impotence

For more information on complications related to having diabetes visit our "Complications" section of the site.