Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center
University of Nebraska Medical Center
University of Nebraska Medical Center

Tobacco and Smoking

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Why Tobacco Matters 

Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of cancer and cancer-related death. According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), cigarette smoking is responsible for about 30% of all cancer deaths in the United States. Tobacco products contain more than 7,000 chemicals, including at least 70 known carcinogens. 

Cancers linked to tobacco use: 

Tobacco use increases the risk of many cancers, including: 

  • Lung cancer  
  • Oral cavity (mouth), throat, and larynx cancers  
  • Esophageal cancer  
  • Bladder cancer  
  • Pancreatic cancer  
  • Kidney cancer  
  • Cervical cancer  
  • Colorectal cancer  
  • Liver cancer  

Smoking causes approximately 80–90% of lung cancer deaths, based on data from the American Cancer Society. 

 How tobacco use can cause cancer 

  • DNA Damage: Chemicals in tobacco smoke damage DNA, leading to mutations. 
  • Chronic Inflammation: Long-term inflammation creates an environment where cancer can develop. 
  • Immune System Suppression: Tobacco weakens the body’s ability to fight abnormal cells. 
  • Direct Exposure to Carcinogens: Smoke directly exposes tissues to harmful cancer-causing chemicals. 

All forms of tobacco carry cancer risk. There is no safe form of tobacco. 

  • Cigarettes  
  • Cigars and pipes  
  • Smokeless tobacco (chew, snuff)  
  • Hookah  
  • E-cigarettes/vaping (long-term cancer risks are still being studied, but harmful chemicals are present)  

Exposure to secondhand smoke can cause: 

  • Lung cancer  
  • Heart disease  
  • Respiratory illness  

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states there is no safe level of exposure. 

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Lung Cancer Screening: An Important Option 

If you currently smoke or used to smoke, lung cancer screening can save lives. 

  • Screening uses a low-dose CT scan to detect lung cancer early  
  • It is recommended for adults at higher risk based on age and smoking history. Learn more about lung cancer screening.  
  • Early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes and survival.  
Important: You do not have to quit smoking to be eligible for screening. While quitting is the most effective way to reduce cancer risk, screening is still strongly recommended for those at high risk—even if they are not ready to quit.

Quitting Tobacco

Quitting provides both immediate and long-term benefits: 

  • Improved circulation and lung function  
  • Reduced carbon monoxide levels  
  • Lower risk of heart disease and stroke  
  • Decreased risk of multiple cancers  
  • After about 10 years, lung cancer risk can be about half that of someone who continues to smoke (American Cancer Society). 
  • Reduces cancer risk at any age  
  • Improves outcomes if cancer is diagnosed  
  • Enhances overall health and quality of life  

Practical steps to quit: 

  1. Set a quit date  
  2. Identify triggers and plan alternatives  
  3. Use nicotine replacement therapy if appropriate  
  4. Talk to your healthcare provider about medications  
  5. Seek counseling or structured support  

Tobacco cessation support 

You don’t have to quit alone—support significantly improves success rates. 

Local and national resources: 

  • Free coaching, quit plans, and support  
  • Phone, text, and online options available  
  • National Quitline: 1-800-QUIT-NOW  

These programs provide evidence-based counseling and support, which are proven to increase quit success. 

Want help quitting? 

Talk to your provider or connect with a cessation program today. Quitting is one of the most important steps you can take to reduce your cancer risk.