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There are many health problems associated with smoking, including lung cancer, tuberculosis and emphysema. However, studies now show that male impotence, or erectile dysfunction is another consequence of this bad habit.

Impotence is the constant inability of a man to maintain an erection for sexual purposes. Erectile dysfunction affects millions of men globally. In the US alone, it affects over 30 million men. Contrary to public belief, the condition is not restricted to just older men. In fact a growing number of young men suffer from erectile dysfunction, which is due to smoking. Even exposure to second-hand smoke is a significant factor in becoming impotent.

Health experts say that nicotine in cigarettes constructs blood vessels, therefore hindering blood flow throughout the body, including the genitals. Therefore an erection is not possible. Smoking also lowers the sperm count of men and may cause the sperm to be abnormally shaped and lethargic as well.

Smoking also affects the sexual desires of men during sex by lowering their level of testosterone. Testosterone is a major sex hormone in males. As a result, many men who smoke are in no mood to have sex.

As for women, they are not immune to the damages that smoking does to their sexual health. Many may find it harder to become pregnant. Only by quitting smoking will they see their chance of getting pregnant increase.

Smoking is a difficult habit to break, but the fact that it is linked to erectile dysfunction should be a motivating factor. Although it is not a life-threatening condition, it can affect your quality of life. Here are some tips to help you quit.

Tips to quit smoking:

• Identify what causes you to smoke, e.g. when you are stressed?
• Keep a diary to record each time you smoke and at what time during the day
• Try to incorporate healthy alternatives to smoking, such as exercise to relieve stress or pick up a piece of fruit instead of a cigarette.
• Set-up a support group of family, friends and colleagues to help you stop smoking.
• Find out more about nicotine patches, gum and sprays.
• Avoid smoking areas or places that could tempt you to smoke.

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