Smoking: A risk factor for vascular disease

Smoking in the United States includes at least 16% of the adults, 24% of high school students, nearly 8% of middle school students and is more prevalent in men than women; however, a decline in smoking has been documented in recent years. Cardiovascular disease continues to be a leading cause of death. Smoking is identified as a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease, carotid disease, and peripheral artery disease with peripheral artery disease documented in 5% –10% of all Americans. Smoking is also a significant risk factor in the development of abdominal aortic aneurysm in 7% of men aged 65–75 years with a smoking history.
Source: Journal of Vascular Nursing - Category: Nursing Authors: Tags: Special Issue: Vascular Disease Risk Factors Source Type: research