Summary: Smoking and the Endocrine System
ŸPostmenopausal bone loss is greater in smokers than in nonsmokers ŸWomen who smoke have an increased risk of developing Graves’ disease ŸSmoking is associated with an increased incidence and clinical severity of Graves’ ophthalmopathy ŸMale smokers have a higher incidence of insulin resistance than male nonsmokers
ŸSmokers are at increased risk of developing diabetes
ŸRisk of type 2 diabetes decreases with increased duration of smoking abstinence
•The studies presented have demonstrated that smoking can increase the risks and severity of a number of endocrine disorders.
•Bone loss and hip fractures are both increased in smokers, and the effect is dose-related.
•The risks of Graves’ disease and autoimmune hypothyroidism are increased with
smoking. The risk of Graves’ disease increases with increasing amount of smoking, and can be reduced by cessation. The incidence and severity of associated ophthalmopathy is also increased.
•Insulin resistance syndrome is more likely in smokers than nonsmokers, as is type 2 diabetes, even with moderate smoking. Smoking abstinence can decrease this risk.