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Journalism of Courage
You cough, your breath feels tight, and climbing a flight of stairs leaves you winded. These could be signs of everyday life, but for long-term smokers, they can be a chilling reminder of the damage inflicted on their bodies. Years of cigarette use leave a long shadow, impacting nearly every organ system.
The harmful chemicals in cigarettes, including tar, nicotine, and over 7000 carcinogens, take a heavy toll on your body over time, said Dr Sai Reddy, Consultant Pulmonologist at Yashoda Hospitals Hyderabad. He highlighted the increased risk of various cancers, predominantly lung cancer but also mouth, throat, oesophagus, pancreas, and bladder cancers. “The cardiovascular system also suffers, with a heightened risk of coronary artery disease, hypertension, and stroke. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, and emphysema are just some of the respiratory illnesses that plague long-term smokers,” he said.
Dr Murarji Ghadge, Consultant ENT and Sleep Disorder Specialist at Ruby Hall Clinic Pune, elaborated on the specific ways long-term smoking wreaks havoc on various bodily systems:
Respiratory System: COPD, with its persistent cough, shortness of breath, and breathing difficulties, is a common consequence. The risk of lung cancer, a leading cause of cancer-related deaths, is significantly elevated.
Cardiovascular System: Smoking hardens and narrows arteries (atherosclerosis), paving the way for heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease. Additionally, it raises the risk of high blood pressure and blood clots.
Immune System: The tar and chemicals in cigarettes suppress the immune system, making smokers more susceptible to infections and diseases, with potentially slower healing times and a higher chance of autoimmune diseases.
Increased Cancer Risk: Beyond lung cancer, smokers face a higher risk of cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, pancreas, bladder, kidney, and cervix.
Damaged Skin and Accelerated Ageing: Smoking reduces skin elasticity, leading to wrinkles and a sallow appearance. Wounds heal slower due to reduced blood flow.
Reproductive Health Issues: Sperm count and erectile dysfunction can be problems for men, while women may experience fertility issues, pregnancy complications like miscarriage and premature birth.
Dental Problems: Gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancers are more prevalent among smokers due to tar and nicotine buildup.
The good news is that quitting smoking, even after years of use, can significantly improve your health. Dr Reddy emphasised that the body has a remarkable ability to heal itself. There are various resources available to help you quit, including nicotine replacement therapy (gum, patches, inhalers, lozenges), smoking cessation programs, and counseling. Even if complete cessation seems difficult, reducing your smoking frequency can significantly benefit your health.
Smoking is a dangerous habit, but it’s never too late to quit and improve your health. By understanding the long-term consequences and seeking support to quit, you can take control of your well-being and live a longer, healthier life.
