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Quitting smoking significantly reduces risk of type 2 diabetes

Published : Saturday, 9 November, 2024 at 12:00 AM  Count : 621
Prof Dr Arup Ratan Choudhury
In recent years, diabetes has become one of the most widespread and chronic health conditions globally, affecting millions of people. With over 95% of all diabetes cases classified as type 2 diabetes. A new study conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), and the University of Newcastle sheds light on a significant but often overlooked contributor: smoking. According to this research, quitting smoking can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by up to 30-40%, offering yet another powerful incentive for individuals to quit tobacco.

Understanding Diabetes and Its Types: Diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot use it effectively. Insulin is a hormone that helps cells absorb glucose from the blood, allowing them to convert it into energy. Without enough insulin or the ability to use it, blood sugar levels rise, leading to various complications over time, such as heart disease, kidney damage, vision loss, nerve damage and Periodontal disease (Gumdisease).

There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. While type 1 diabetes, which is believed to be caused by an autoimmune response, is less common and generally diagnosed in younger people, type 2 diabetes accounts for the majority of cases and is highly preventable through lifestyle changes. Given the global rise in type 2 diabetes and the serious health risks associated with it, reducing risk factors like smoking is crucial.

The Link Between Smoking and Type 2 Diabetes: Many people are unaware about the direct link between smoking and type 2 diabetes. Studies show that cigarette smokers are 30-40% more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than non-smokers. The IDF estimates that nearly 53.7 million people worldwide are living with diabetes, with numbers expected to rise to 643 million by 2030. For people already managing diabetes, smoking can make it more difficult to control blood sugar levels, exacerbating the risk of complications and imposing a further burden on healthcare systems.

Nicotine, the addictive substance in cigarettes, plays a significant role in raising blood sugar levels, creating insulin resistance, and interfering with the body's ability to use glucose effectively. Additionally, smoking causes inflammation and damage to cells, hindering the body's natural healing processes and elevating the risk of complications associated with diabetes, such as cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, blindness, even lower-limb paralysis, and Periodontal disease (Gum Disease).

Smoking also causes an increase in belly fat, particularly in heavy smokers, which is another factor that raises the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Excess belly fat has been directly linked to insulin resistance, a condition that contributes to high blood sugar levels and type 2 diabetes development. This link holds true even for individuals who are not overweight, as smoking-related fat accumulation specifically around the abdomen is particularly problematic.

Quitting Smoking: A Step-by-Step Improvement in Health: The health benefits of quitting smoking are both immediate and long-term. Within just 12 hours of quitting, the level of carbon monoxide in the bloodstream returns to normal. Over the next few weeks and months, circulation improves, and lung function begins to recover. Within a year, the risk of heart disease is cut in half compared to someone who continues to smoke. For those managing diabetes, quitting smoking can improve blood sugar control, reduce the need for higher doses of insulin, and decrease the risk of complications.


Quitting smoking makes controlling blood sugar levels easier for people with diabetes, but the adjustment process can take time. Blood sugar levels may need to be monitored closely as the body adapts to the absence of nicotine. Nonetheless, the improvements in health and the reduction in diabetes-related risks make quitting smoking one of the most impactful lifestyle changes for those with diabetes.

E-Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products: Not a Safe Alternative: E-cigarettes still contain nicotine, which can raise blood sugar levels and increase the risk of diabetes. Studies suggest that even brief exposure to nicotine from e-cigarettes can disrupt blood sugar regulation, while prolonged use may increase the likelihood of weight gain, adding to the risk of type 2 diabetes. Traditional tobacco products, such as jorda, gul, and sadapata, pose similar risks.While some people turn to e-cigarettes or other nicotine-replacement products as a "safer" alternative to smoking, these products are not without risks.

For individuals with diabetes, the use of e-cigarettes or any form of tobacco product should be discouraged. These products can also raise LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) levels and lower HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) levels, further increasing the risk of cardiovascular complications for those already managing diabetes.

The Importance of Healthcare Support for Smoking Cessation: Healthcare providers play a crucial role in helping people quit smoking, especially those with diabetes.

Support from a healthcare professional specially Counselling Psychologist can make a significant difference, especially as quitting smoking often requires multiple attempts. Doctors, nurses, and diabetes educators can provide encouragement, recommend practical tools, and create a personalized plan to help patients quit successfully.

The Dual Benefit of Quitting Smoking for Diabetes and Overall Health: The evidence is clear: quitting smoking is a crucial step in reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and managing diabetes for those already diagnosed. For individuals with diabetes, smoking complicates blood sugar management and develop the risk of severe complications, from cardiovascular disease to nerve damage and blindness. International Health organizations like the IDF and WHO emphasize that quitting smoking is not only a step toward lung or heart health but also a powerful tool for reducing diabetes risks and improving overall quality of life.

Quitting smoking can be challenging, but the long-term benefits make it a truly worthwhile commitment. With healthcare support, lifestyle adjustments, and personal resolve, individuals can take control of their health by choosing to quit smoking today. As we approach World Diabetes Day on November 14th, it's a perfect time to raise awareness about the impact of smoking on diabetes and to encourage positive lifestyle changes for a healthier future.

The writer is recipient of National Award - EKUSHE PODOK, Founder President, MANAS- Madak Darbo O Nesha Nirodh Sangstha, Honorary Senior Consultant, Department of Dentistry, BIRDEM General Hospital and Coordinator Ibrahim Medical College Dental Unit


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