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Quitting is still crucial for lung health even when total risk removal is not assured because it reduces the risk of COPD and numerous other severe respiratory and cardiovascular disease
While quitting smoking cannot entirely eliminate the risk of COPD, it substantially reduces the likelihood of developing the disease and mitigates further damage to the lungs. The decision to quit is critical for long-term respiratory health
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease that obstructs airflow, making breathing increasingly difficult. It typically involves chronic bronchitis and emphysema, conditions where airways and lung tissue are damaged, reducing oxygen flow to the bloodstream. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, persistent cough, and frequent respiratory infections. Smoking is the primary cause, but long-term exposure to air pollutants and genetic factors also contribute. COPD has no cure, but treatments like medications, oxygen therapy, and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms. Early diagnosis and lifestyle adjustments, like quitting smoking, can significantly slow disease progression.
Dr Vikas Mittal, Pulmonologist, CK Birla Hospital, Delhi shares all you need to know:
Quitting smoking significantly reduces the risk of developing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), although it may not eliminate the possibility. The primary cause of COPD, a progressive lung disease marked by breathing difficulties, is acknowledged to be smoking. According to studies, between 25 – 30% of smokers go on to develop COPD; this suggests that although smoking is a significant contributing factor, other genetic, environmental, or lifestyle factors may also be involved.
After quitting, the risk of COPD does not go away right away. Years after quitting smoking, some ex-smokers may still acquire COPD due to the long-term harm induced by cigarette smoke inhalation. However, quitting smoking lowers inflammation, slows the development of lung damage, and may prevent COPD from getting worse in people who are already at risk or in its early stages. Quitting smoking can greatly reduce symptoms and enhance the quality of life for smokers with COPD.
It’s also crucial to remember that COPD usually appears after 20 to 30 years of continuous smoke inhalation. Thus, the best protection is to never start smoking. The best way to lower your chances of developing COPD is to stop smoking if you currently do. Quitting is still crucial for lung health even when total risk removal is not assured because it reduces the risk of COPD and numerous other severe respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
While quitting smoking cannot entirely eliminate the risk of COPD, it substantially reduces the likelihood of developing the disease and mitigates further damage to the lungs. The decision to quit is critical for long-term respiratory health.
