Dear Scared of Smoking,

Some research suggests that exposure to a variety of toxic substances, including some found in cigarettes, can damage sperm and/or lower one's sperm count . Sperm imperfections and mishaps are to be expected, given the sheer volume of sperm in one ejaculate. However, it seems that they occur at a higher rate in men who have been exposed to certain toxins, drugs, alcohol, and radiation.

Previously, women were the sole target of a campaign for healthy babies. Women were advised not to smoke during pregnancy because of the numerous and serious health problems it can cause to an unborn child. Now we know that it is not only the mother who needs to be aware of the dangers of smoking.

You have to figure that there are millions of smokers out there fathering children -- so, the effects of smoking on male fertility can't be that drastic. However, a father's nicotine habit could lead to his child's higher risk of serious medical problems. And, if you conceive a child who is born healthy, the next step is maintaining that level of health. Second-hand smoke in the home can cause respiratory problems and increase the risk of hospitalization for bronchitis and pneumonia.

As for the second part of your question, well... do you want the long answer, or the longer answer? Alice's point being that, even leaving cancer out of it, the list of smoking-related health problems is pretty daunting. At any rate, Alice will try to make this short and concise.

Let's look at some of the big disease categories first:

• cardiovascular -- includes high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stroke, coronary heart disease, and heart attack
• lung -- includes chronic hoarseness, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema
• dental -- includes tooth decay, gum disease, and chronic bad breath
• miscellaneous -- osteoporosis, ulcers, and diabetes

Smoking can also create a slew of other types of problems. For example, smoking can lead to greater complications from diabetes and can speed up the damaging effects of multiple sclerosis (MS). Many smokers develop circulatory problems, are short of breath, and have low energy levels. Smoking can bring on early menopause and menstrual disorders.

How often have you seen a smoker with pearly whites? How about a smoker, who's been puffing for a number of years, with an "Oil of Olay" complexion? Smoking may even cause hair loss. Lastly, think about the number of fires and accidents caused by smokers. Those can be harmful, too. And the list goes on... and on... and on.

Alice

Related Q&As

Smoking's effects on sex

Nicotine and Surgery