Negative Effects of Black & Mild Cigars

Black & Milds are long, thin cigars that more closely resemble cigarettes than traditional cigars. Made in Pennsylvania, Black & Mild Cigars are produced with pipe tobacco and come in a variety of flavors. Like any cigar or tobacco product, Black & Milds pose a serious health risk. In fact, the BACCHUS Network reports that Black & Milds contain more nicotine than cigarettes.

Cancer Risk

Someone who smokes Black & Mild cigars increases his risk of developing cancer, whether he inhales of not. According to the American Cancer Society, cigar smokers of any brand who do not inhale are four to 10 times more likely to die from cancers of the mouth, esophagus and larynx than non-smokers 1. Those who do inhale are seven times more likely to die from oral cancer and 39 times more likely to die from cancer of the larynx.

Addiction

The nicotine found in Black & Mild cigars can cause smokers to become addicted. The American Heart Association explains that nicotine alters the brain to the point where it needs the chemical more and more 3. When the nicotine is not present, the body goes through nasty withdrawals. Some cigar smokers may think that because they do not inhale, they do not take in nicotine and cannot become addicted. However, even when not inhaled, the nicotine in cigars is still absorbed through the mouth.

Secondhand Smoke

Black & Mild cigars pose significant health risks to anyone in the same room, or near, the smoker. Carbon monoxide, arsenic, nicotine and ammonia are just some of the harmful chemicals found in cigar smoke, according to the American Cancer Society 1. Secondhand cigar smoke is more potent than secondhand smoke from cigarettes. Cigars burn longer and use more tobacco. Secondhand smoke is especially dangerous to infants and children and can increase the risk of cancer and heart disease.

Heart and Lung Disease

Cigar smoking can lead to other health problems beside cancer 12. WebMD reports that cigar smokers are twice as likely to develop lung diseases like chronic bronchitis or emphysema. Cigar smokers with existing asthma can aggravate and worsen the condition. The toxins in cigars are also bad for the heart. The American Cancer Society finds that cigar smokers are twice as likely to die from a heart attack as non-smokers 1.

Oral Health

Smoking Black & Milds can lead to cancers of the mouth as well as other oral health problems. The Rush University Medical Center reports that cigar smoking can cause tooth loss and loss of the jaw bone 4. Cigars have also been linked to gum disease, a condition in which the gums can recede from the teeth. Other negative effects of cigar smoking to the mouth include stained and yellow teeth and bad breath.