Skeletal System

Smoking increases the risk of a woman developing a bone disease known as osteoporosis. Osteoporosis can cause the bones of the spine to collapse, which causes great pain. It also causes loss of mass of other bones in the body, including those of the hip, wrists, and jaw.Men can also have osteoporosis, and most do as they get old.

Scientists are studying the effects of tobacco use on bones of both men and women. Some studies are beginning to suggest that bones of smokers, if broken, may heal slower.