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Journalism of Courage
Shah Rukh Khan, once a chain smoker, recently announced that he’s finally quit smoking, marking a significant step towards better health. The beloved Bollywood icon shared this personal milestone at an event organised by his fan clubs in Bandra on his 59th birthday.
A video clip from the event reveals him saying, “There’s a good thing – I’m not smoking anymore, guys. I thought I won’t feel so breathless after quitting smoking, but I still feel it. Inshallah, that will also get ok.” His announcement is a positive message to fans, who have long admired his talent and charisma.
Dr Sumeet Singhania, Consultant in Pulmonary Medicine at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, emphasises that quitting smoking offers numerous health benefits that can enhance quality of life and longevity even at an advanced age.
Dr Singhania explains that stopping smoking brings immediate and long-term health benefits, regardless of how long a person has smoked. For Shah Rukh, this decision could mean a marked improvement in his energy levels, lung capacity, and general vitality. Research supports that those who quit smoking, even later in life, reduce their risk of severe health issues like strokes, heart attacks, and chronic infections. According to Dr Singhania, “Older adults who quit smoking experience better lung capacity over time, improved heart health, and a reduced likelihood of severe complications.”
While some effects of long-term smoking, such as lung scarring and certain cardiovascular changes, may not be fully reversible, Dr Singhania underscores the body’s incredible capacity to heal in other ways. Within hours of quitting, carbon monoxide levels in the bloodstream drop, allowing oxygen levels to normalise.
Over weeks to months, circulation improves, inflammation in the airways decreases, and respiratory symptoms tend to lessen. Dr Singhania notes that “quitting smoking helps boost energy levels and improves oxygen flow, enhancing mobility and physical endurance.”
Over the years, the risk of developing cancers, particularly those of the lungs and throat, declines significantly, though it may not reach the lower risk level of someone who has never smoked. Studies show that former smokers also have a reduced dependency on medications for chronic conditions, improved mental well-being, and stronger immune systems that can better combat infections.
Dr Singhania highlights that the highest health benefits come when people quit smoking at a younger age; however, the advantages of quitting remain substantial no matter when one stops. Quitting smoking reduces the financial and physical toll of managing smoking-related illnesses, improves mental well-being, and enhances immunity, helping the body fend off infections more effectively.
For older adults, quitting also adds years to life expectancy, making those years healthier and more active. Dr Singhania concludes, “It’s never too late to quit. Quitting smoking, even after years of the habit, has transformative effects on both health and quality of life.”
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
