Jorge Padrón, president of Padrón Cigars, explains how his company creates lasting customer loyalty.

The Benefits of Smoking Cigars

If you like to smoke cigars, it’s likely that the experience of enjoying a fine premium cigar has become part of your relaxation and enjoyment ritual. For many people, it’s a way to relax after a stressful day at work or a demanding week in business. It is often associated with social activities, and can lead to the development of long-term business relationships.

A cigar is a tube-shaped roll of tightly rolled tobacco leaves in a tobacco leaf wrapper or in any substance containing tobacco. It may contain other ingredients to add different flavors. It is smoked by placing it on a flame or by using a butane lighter to ignite it. Its flavor and aroma are enjoyed in a social setting. It is also used to mark important events, such as weddings and anniversaries.

Cigars are usually available in a variety of sizes and shapes. The most popular is the panatela, which is a thin cigar open at both ends that has a straight shape. A cheroot is similar but thicker and stubbier, and has a finished top that must be removed before smoking it.

There are many benefits to cigar smoking, including a sense of ritual and relaxation, and an appreciation for the nuances and complexities of tobacco. However, smoking can cause nicotine addiction and increase the risk of cancers of the mouth, throat, larynx (voice box), esophagus, and pancreas, as well as heart disease and lung diseases such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Two recent follow-up mortality studies found that daily cigar smoking significantly increases all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in comparison with nonsmokers.