The risk of lung disease is increased by cigarette smoke.

Tobacco in all its forms is one of the leading risk factors threatening human health. Worryingly, the effects of tobacco smoke on the respiratory system often occur silently and progress slowly, causing many people to be complacent and leaving behind damage that is difficult to reverse.

In Vietnam, according to estimates by the World Health Organization, tobacco causes more than 100,000 deaths each year. Tobacco smoke contains approximately 7,000 toxic chemicals, nearly 70 of which are carcinogenic, such as nicotine, ammonia, formaldehyde, and methoprene. Once inside the body, these substances quickly damage many organs, especially the respiratory system.

According to Dr. Tran Khac Toan, Specialist in Lung Diseases, Ca Mau Tuberculosis and Lung Disease Hospital: “Smoking is the leading cause of lung diseases such as COPD, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, and lung cancer. Smokers have a 3-5 times higher risk of dying from pulmonary tuberculosis, and a 1.5-7 times higher risk of developing acute respiratory diseases.”

The lungs play a vital role in supplying oxygen to the body and have a natural defense mechanism against harmful agents. The filtration process in the upper respiratory tract helps prevent dust, bacteria, and irritants from entering the lungs. However, when smoking, the smoke enters through the mouth, bypassing the nasal filtration mechanism. The cilia – responsible for expelling mucus and foreign objects – are damaged or even destroyed. This causes smokers to produce more phlegm that is difficult to expel, leading to its accumulation in the lungs and hindering gas exchange. In addition, the toxins in cigarette smoke constrict the airways, reducing airflow and causing persistent coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Compared to non-smokers, smokers generally have weaker immune systems. This is because cigarette smoke weakens the immune system, damages the airways, and hinders lung recovery, thereby increasing the risk of respiratory diseases and even cancer. Therefore, quitting smoking is an urgent solution to improve respiratory function and reduce the risk of disease.

Dr. Toan emphasized: “To support lung recovery, in addition to quitting smoking, people need to maintain a healthy lifestyle such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga to improve lung capacity and oxygen exchange. Regular physical activity such as walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling also contributes to strengthening heart and lung function. Furthermore, it is necessary to drink enough water, preferably warm water to thin phlegm, and combine this with steam inhalation to soothe the respiratory tract. A diet rich in green vegetables, fruits, and nuts also helps reduce inflammation and improve lung health. Most importantly, it is essential to completely avoid cigarette smoke, dust, and other pollutants during the recovery process.”

Sustainable health is achieved when the body receives comprehensive and proper care. Quitting smoking is not only a practical action to protect the respiratory system, but also an effort towards a safer and more positive life every day.

Source: https://soyte.camau.gov.vn/bai-khoa-hoc-chinh-tri-va-xa-hoi/nguy-co-benh-phoi-gia-tang-tu-khoi-thuoc-299348