Tobacco consumption by women has increased tremendously in low- and middle-income countries. Exposure to tobacco either through smoke or in its smokeless forms can have grave consequences for women. Apart from susceptibility to various forms of cancers like oral, pharyngeal, esophageal, or cervical, it also poses an increased risk of ischemic heart diseases and osteoporosis and can uniquely affect the reproductive health of women.
Neuro-teratogens from nicotine capable of surpassing the placental barrier affect perinatal health and may result in still-births, pre-term low birth weight, and may pose a risk of cancer to the fetus. Secondary to the direct adverse effects, women who acquire tobacco-associated habits are suspected to be a victim of child abuse or partner abuse or a sufferer of second hand tobacco usage. Policies have been made by the WHO to protect women against…
