Cigars and pipe tobacco are not as addictive or as harmful as cigarettes. But they still carry their own health risks. Consider that:
People who smoke cigars daily are up to 4 times more likely to develop lung cancer than people who do not smoke.
The risks of cancer of the mouth, tongue, gums, and lips (called oral cancer) and cancer of the voice box (larynx) or esophagus are about the same for people who smoke cigars or pipes 5 times a day as they are for people who smoke cigarettes.
The risks of lung disease (emphysema and chronic bronchitis) and heart disease are lower for people who smoke cigars than for people who smoke cigarettes but higher than for people who do not smoke.
ByHealthwise Staff Primary Medical ReviewerAdam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Specialist Medical ReviewerMichael F. Bierer, MD - Internal Medicine
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.