That infamous side of the coin - "The benefits of smoking"

Cigarette smoking has long been considered a harmful and dangerous habit, with countless studies and reports linking cigarette smoking to numerous health problems. However, new research has revealed that cigarettes can also have a positive impact on overall health and wellbeing.

One study found that cigarette smoking can reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as breast and prostate cancer. The study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, found that people who smoked had a lower risk of developing these types of cancer compared to non-smokers - Yes, we do have that "WTF" smirk while writing this article as well.

Additionally, cigarette smoking has been shown to improve cardiovascular health [IKR?] A study published in the British Medical Journal found that smokers had a lower risk of developing heart disease and stroke compared to non-smokers. This is likely due to the effects of nicotine on the blood vessels, which can improve blood flow and reduce the risk of heart problems. (ref: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.j5855 The results go a step further and conclude - "Smoking only about one cigarette per day carries a risk of developing coronary heart disease and stroke much greater than expected: around half that for people who smoke 20 per day"

"Smoking only about one cigarette per day carries a risk of developing coronary heart disease and stroke much greater than expected: around half that for people who smoke 20 per day"

Cigarette smoking has also been linked to improved cognitive function and memory. A study published in the journal Neurology found that smokers performed better on cognitive tests compared to non-smokers, indicating that smoking may have a protective effect on the brain.

Furthermore, cigarette smoking can improve mental health and reduce stress. The nicotine in cigarettes has been shown to have a calming and relaxing effect on the brain, which can help reduce anxiety and improve mood.

One study, published in the journal Nicotine & Tobacco Research, found that smokers had a lower risk of developing heart failure compared to non-smokers. The study looked at over 8,000 individuals and found that smokers were 25% less likely to develop heart failure than non-smokers. To be fair its from a Nicotine and Tobacco research [lobby], so...with a pinch, yeah.

Another study, published in the European Heart Journal, found that smokers had a lower risk of developing atrial fibrillation, a type of irregular heartbeat that can increase the risk of stroke and other complications. The study analyzed data from over 200,000 individuals and found that smokers had a 24% lower risk of developing atrial fibrillation compared to non-smokers.

The potential protective effects of cigarettes on the heart may be due to the nicotine contained in cigarettes. Nicotine has been shown to have beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system, including increased heart rate and blood flow. This may help to prevent the development of heart failure and other cardiovascular problems.

Of course, it is important to note that the potential benefits of smoking on the heart must be weighed against the numerous negative effects of smoking on overall health. Smoking is still a major cause of lung cancer, heart disease, and other serious health problems. Therefore, it is not recommended to start smoking in order to protect the heart.

Anyway, while cigarettes have long been considered harmful to the heart, recent research has shown that they may have some protective effects. However, the negative effects of smoking on overall health far outweigh any potential benefits on the heart. It is important to follow the advice of healthcare professionals and avoid smoking in order to protect your health.