Did you know that smoking cigars exposes you and the people around you to the same toxic and cancer-causing chemicals as cigarettes? Saying no to cigars will help you maintain mission readiness and protect those around you. There are lots of myths about the dangers of cigar use, but the fact is cigars are not a safe alternative to cigarettes.

There is Nicotine in Cigar Smoke

When you light up a cigar, its smoke contains nicotine. Even if you don’t inhale the smoke into your lungs, cigars still cause nicotine levels in your body to increase. Nicotine is the chemical that makes tobacco products addictive. It can also harm brain development in children and young adults.

Cigar Smoke Contains Toxic Chemicals

Cigar smoke contains many of the same chemicals found in cigarette smoke. Because cigars are wrapped in a tobacco leaf instead of paper, the tobacco inside doesn’t burn as completely as it does when you smoke a cigarette. This causes cigar smoke to have higher levels of ammonia, carbon monoxide and tar than cigarette smoke.

People Who Smoke Cigars are at Greater Risk of Cancer

Smoking cigars increases your risk of throat and mouth cancers, including cancers of the esophagus, larynx (voice box), pharynx (throat) and the oral cavity (lip, tongue, mouth). It also increases your risk of lung cancer.

Cancer Isn’t the Only Health Risk of Smoking Cigars

People who smoke cigars are at greater risk of gum disease and tooth loss. Heavy cigar smoking, especially if you inhale the smoke, increases your risk of chronic lung diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and heart disease.

The best way to avoid the negative health effects of using tobacco and protect your health as a service member is to ditch tobacco products, including cigars, completely. There are a lot of resources available to help you live a tobacco-free life. You can start by speaking with your healthcare provider or by checking out the tools and resources here.