Cigarette smoking is the leading factor that contributes to preventable deaths in the United States. It contributes to cancer, heart disease and stroke, among other conditions. Smoking is particularly dangerous for people with diabetes because tobacco use can increase the risk of and worsen many diabetic complications. It can also interfere with diabetes medications.

Smoking can slow blood flow and elevate “bad” cholesterol, glucose (blood sugar), blood pressure and insulin resistance. Smoking also increases a patient’s risk of developing diabetic complications including kidney disease (nephropathy), eye disease (retinopathy), nerve damage (neuropathy) and cardiovascular disease. Some research has shown that tobacco use also raises a person’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

People with diabetes who smoke are encouraged to quit. People with diabetes who do not smoke are encouraged not to start. Patients should also avoid using chewing tobacco, pipe tobacco and cigars. These products are not safe alternatives to cigarettes.

The nicotine and other ingredients in tobacco are highly addictive, and people often experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit. This makes it difficult to stop smoking. However, there are many methods to conquer nicotine addiction. Patients are encouraged to discuss smoking cessation with their physician.