A study on esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients who underwent surgery revealed higher rates of major postoperative complications, particularly pulmonary issues, among smokers compared to nonsmokers. Smokers had a higher incidence of pulmonary complications, including pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome, with active smokers facing a significantly higher 30-day mortality rate. However, smoking did not independently impact long-term outcomes when other clinical factors were considered.

Source: Surgery