Prioritising lung health on No Smoking Day: Pulmonologist addresses misconceptions on smoking and lung health

Sowmya Raju | NT

Bengaluru: Today, on No Smoking Day, which is celebrated every second Wednesday of March in India Dr Pavan Yadav, Lead Consultant in Interventional Pulmonology & Lung Transplantation, sheds light on the unique lung health concerns faced by residents of Bengaluru and offers valuable insights on smoking-related lung diseases and preventative measures.

Lung health challenges in Bengaluru

Dr Yadav highlights the impact of air pollution, industrial emissions, and seasonal variations on lung health in Bengaluru.

He underscores the role of pollen levels and construction dust in exacerbating respiratory issues, emphasising the need for proactive measures to mitigate these challenges.

Smoking remains a significant risk factor for lung diseases, with an observed increase in smoking-related lung conditions among patients in Bengaluru.

Dr Yadav emphasises the pervasive impact of smoking on lung health, both for direct smokers and those exposed to second-hand smoke.

Dr Yadav also addresses common misconceptions surrounding smoking and lung health, such as the belief that "light" cigarettes or alternative smoking methods are less harmful.

He emphasises the addictive nature of nicotine and the comprehensive harm caused by smoking to the entire body.

Rise of lung diseases linked to smoking

While specific studies focusing on Bengaluru might be limited, Dr Yadav references national and international research highlighting the increasing burden of lung diseases linked to smoking.

He suggests leveraging existing data, such as the Global Adult Tobacco Survey, to understand local trends.

Beyond quitting smoking, Dr Yadav recommends regular exercise, a healthy diet, and avoiding exposure to pollutants to protect lung health.

He advocates for wearing masks during high pollution days and using air purifiers indoors as additional measures. For individuals who have smoked for a significant period, Dr Yadav suggests pulmonary rehabilitation, breathing exercises, and regular lung function monitoring to improve lung health.

He stresses the importance of avoiding environments with air pollutants or second-hand smoke exposure.

Minimise air pollution's impact

Dr Yadav recommends staying informed about air quality indices, limiting outdoor activities during high pollution levels, and advocating for cleaner energy sources.

He highlights the importance of using N95 masks and improving indoor air quality.

On No Smoking Day, Dr Yadav urges individuals to prioritise lung health by quitting smoking, emphasising that support is available for those ready to take this vital step towards a healthier life.

Dr Yadav discusses advancements in lung health treatment, including lung transplantation and pulmonary rehabilitation, offering hope for improved outcomes.

He highlights the potential of personalised medicine and biological therapies in treating chronic lung conditions.

Smoking and COVID-19

Dr Yadav discusses the correlation between smoking and the severity of COVID-19 cases, citing research suggesting that smokers are more likely to develop severe disease and suffer from complications due to the virus.

Dr Yadav recommends national programs like the National Tobacco Cessation Program, helplines, mobile health initiatives, local hospitals with smoking cessation clinics, online resources, and community support groups for individuals seeking to quit smoking.