Although smokers tend to be thinner than non-smokers, the effect of smoking on the endocrine system (glands which secrete hormones) often results in the abnormal distribution of body fat.
Smokers are more likely to store fat around the waist than the hips i.e. they have a higher waist-to-hip ratio, or an ‘apple’ shape. This is associated with a higher risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, gallbladder problems and cancer of the uterus and breast in women.
Read more:
Beyond the boundary of the body
Diet, depression and obesity