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This research was published in the Journal of Age and Ageing and tracked 8,800 people aged over 50 through examination of brain function such as memory, learning new words or telling as many animal names as possible in one minute. After 4-year and 8-year testing, results indicated that the most significant and important variables related to dysfunction of the brain were cigarette smoking, followed by high blood pressure, and overweight. Researchers concluded that these variables were originally perceived as bad for the heart and as causes of heart disease. However, this research suggested that these variables are also not good for the brain.

Prof., Dr. Prakit Vathesatogkit, the Executive Secretary of ASH Thailand said that this research confirms once again that smoking affects the degradation or aging of organs throughout the body without exception. Hundreds of toxins and substances in cigarette smoke are carried by the blood to affect and damage all organs in the body. Externally, we observe how the skin is damaged and facial wrinkles develop, through damage to collagen beneath the skin from free radicals. Organs such as the lung are damaged causing Emphysema, while all blood vessels throughout the body become stiff, and blood capillaries gradually narrow. Smoking is not only a cause of deterioration of the physical body, research results from King’s College London also indicates that the dangers of cigarette smoking extend to reducing levels of intelligence in the brain. The best way to avoid this decline is to quit smoking no matter ones age.

Request additional information, please contact:
Prof. Dr. Prakit Vathesatogkit, Action on Smoking and Health Foundation (ASH Thailand)
Tel.: 0-2278-1828 / 08-1822-9799