How does smoking lead to anemia?

Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder. People with Thalassemia disease are not able to make enough hemoglobin, which causes severe anemia. Hemoglobin is found in red blood cells and carries oxygen to all parts of the body. When there is not enough haemoglobin in the red blood cells, oxygen cannot get to all parts of the body. Organs then become starved for oxygen and are unable to function properly.

There are many ways by which smoking cigarettes leads to particular types of anemia, including, but not limited to the following:

• Smoking causes significant reduction of vitamin C in the body, which is essential in the absorption of iron.
• Smoking causes gastritis and ulcers, which may result in bleeding, which can cause anemia.
• Smoking interferes with fertility and menstrual cycles, and may cause abnormally excessive bleeding during periods.
• Smoking can lead to cancer, which causes chronic blood loss, and anemia.
• Smoking also destroys the immune system, which may also lead to an autoimmune blood disease called autoimmune haemolytic anemia. The said type of anemia is characterized by the malfunction of the immune system, which mistakenly destroys the red blood cells.
• Smoking during pregnancy does not only affect the unborn fetus but also lowers folic acid levels in the body. This may likewise cause anemia.
• Smoking decreases appetite, which may lead to low iron and vitamin C consumption. On the other hand, smoking makes caffeine, alcohol, and other unhealthy food taste good, thus increasing intake and introduction of such substances into the body.

People who have anemia or do not want to develop anemia should stop smoking at the earliest possible time. A combination of professional advice and help, as well as a personal resolve to cut the habit will make it easier to maintain a healthier circulatory system.

Sources:
http://thalassemia.com and QuitToday