Medicare Risk Adjustment Tip: Toxic Effects of Tobacco & Nicotine
Smoking causes disease and disability and damages almost every organ in the body. Smoking causes cancer, heart disease, stroke, lung disease, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Smoking also increases the risk of immune system problems, including tuberculosis, certain eye diseases, and rheumatoid arthritis. Nicotine is an addictive chemical compound found in tobacco plants. Nicotine use can cause serious health problems, including increased blood pressure and hardening of artery walls, which can lead to a heart attack. Tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, most e-cigarettes, and hookah tobacco contain nicotine. Documentation, including treatment plans and diagnoses related to the toxic effects of tobacco and nicotine , as well as chronic conditions for current tobacco use, must include specific information to be fully supported.