Discuss the increase in likelihood of cancer due to smoking nicotine and marijuana

The Link Between Smoking, Nicotine, Marijuana and Cancer

Risk Factors Related to Smoking

Scientific studies have consistently indicated a strong link between smoking and various types of cancer, particularly lung cancer. Smoking has been identified as the cause of about 90% of lung cancer cases (Siegel, Miller & Jemal, 2015). Also, smokers have a higher risk of developing other types of cancer including, mouth, throat, esophagus, larynx, pancreas, bladder, cervix, and kidney.

Role of Nicotine in Cancer

Nicotine itself is not carcinogenic but has been shown to contribute to the development and severity of cancer by promoting angiogenesis and cell proliferation, and by inhibiting apoptosis (Grando, 2014). In addition, nicotine enhances tumor growth and metastasis in animal models (Grando, 2014). Therefore, while nicotine may not directly cause cancer, it can contribute to the development and progression of cancers caused by the carcinogens found in tobacco smoke.

Cancer Risk Associated with Smoking Marijuana

Studies on the link between marijuana and cancer are somewhat less definitive. Some research suggests that there might be an association between marijuana smoking and lung, oral, and testicular cancers, but more studies are needed to confirm these findings (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2017).