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New NHS Drug and the Brain-Damaging Effects of Smoking

A new NHS drug, Varenicline, promises to help thousands quit smoking. However, smoking significantly impacts brain health, accelerating aging and increasing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

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United Kingdom

HealthLifestyleSmokingDiseaseBrainDrug

NhsNhs EnglandTeva UkRe:cognition Health

Dr Steven Allder

What is Varenicline and how does it help smokers quit?: Varenicline, a new NHS drug, aims to help smokers quit by reducing nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It's a once-a-day pill used alongside behavioral support, with the potential to help 85,000 people annually.
What are the effects of smoking on brain volume and structure?: Smoking reduces brain volume, particularly in areas vital for memory and decision-making. This is due to restricted blood flow, cell damage, and increased oxidative stress caused by toxins like nicotine and carbon monoxide.
What are the overall cumulative effects of smoking on the brain?: The harmful effects of smoking on the brain are multifaceted, impacting brain volume, accelerating aging, increasing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases, and impairing cognitive functions. These effects are largely due to reduced blood flow, increased oxidative stress and inflammation, and the toxic effects of nicotine.
How does smoking accelerate brain aging and impact cognitive function?: Smoking accelerates brain aging by damaging blood vessels and increasing oxidative stress, leading to faster cognitive decline in functions like memory and processing speed. This is because nicotine restricts blood flow, depriving brain cells of oxygen.
What is the link between smoking and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's?: Smoking significantly increases the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. It accelerates oxidative stress and inflammation, damaging brain cells and promoting amyloid plaque formation.

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