Cigar and pipe smoking far from safe

Cigar and pipe smokers have long believed that their habit is healthier than cigarette smoking. However, new research indicates that its far better to stop smoking altogether, as people who smoke cigars or pipes appear to be more likely to develop lung disease.

Cigarette smoking has long been identified as a risk factor for lung diseases like emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Conversely, due to their less popular usage, few studies have looked at whether cigar or pipe smoking can contribute to lung disease risks.

Many people believe that pipes and cigars are safer smoking alternatives as they think that smoke is not inhaled into the lungs. However the findings of this study by scientists in the US, recently published in The Annals of Internal Medicine, indicates that cigar and pipe smoking can double the chances of developing an obstruction in the lungs.

The study indicates that people who are trying to quit a cigarette habit shouldn't turn to alternative forms of smoking. All types of smoking have now been revealed as dangerous to healthy lungs. Instead, smokers who are struggling to quit should turn to alternative treatments that can help them kick the unhealthy behaviour altogether. Stop smoking hypnotherapy sessions can help reduce the mental compulsion to smoke and bolster willpower.

Pipe and cigar smoking have also been previously linked to increased risk of cancer by previous studies - with one study suggesting that the danger could be on par with smoking 19 cigarettes a day.