Effect of tobacco smoking and smoking cessation on plasma lipoproteins and associated major cardiovascular risk factors: a narrative review

Abstract

Cigarette smoking, active or passive, kills about 6 million people each year worldwide. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is responsible for 40% of all smoking-related deaths, lung cancer accounts for 20% of all smoking-related deaths, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is related to another 20% of deaths. In this narrative review we consider the relationship between cigarette smoking and CVD. We discuss disease states and/or CVD risk factors related to smoking, such as dyslipidaemia, vascular inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, arterial stiffness, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), chronic kidney disease (CKD), and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) as well as their complex interrelations. Smoking cessation can correct abnormalities related to smoking; however, success rates are relatively low. In cases of inability to quit, measures to minimize the adverse effects of smoking specifically related to CVD should be taken. Smokers should receive best practice treatment, according to guidelines, as for non-smokers.

Keywords::

• Arterial stiffness
• Chronic kidney disease
• Diabetes mellitus
• Lipoproteins
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
• Smoking
• Smoking cessation

Transparency

Declaration of funding

This paper was not funded. This review was written independently by the authors and without professional help.

Declaration of financial/other relationships

V.G.A., N.K., M.D., A.K., and D.P.M. have disclosed that they have no significant relationships with or financial interests in any commercial companies related to this study or article.

CMRO peer reviewers may have received honoraria for their review work. The peer reviewers on this manuscript have disclosed that they have no relevant financial relationships.