Lighting Up 

A weakened immune system is among the adverse health effects that SmokeFree.gov lists as associated with smoking. Some studies have found an association between stress and immune system impairment. Smoking obviously has a lot of adverse health effects. 

Most are aware of the long-term effects of tobacco use, like an increased risk of: 

• cancer;
• heart disease;
• emphysema; and
• wrinkles. 

But because it can impair your immune system, it could leave you more susceptible to acute illnesses like the flu. So instead of taking a smoke break and falling back on a bad habit when you get stressed, find other habits, such as going for a walk or taking a few minutes to meditate. And if you're currently a regular smoker, talk to your doctor about resources to help you quit.