World No Tobacco Day: Protect your heart and lungs by quitting smoking/vaping

Hyderabad: On World No Tobacco Day (May 31), it is essential to scrutinise the health impacts of two prevalent habits in our society: vaping and smoking. Both practices are widely adopted, especially among younger generations, even while they pose significant long-term health risks that are often underestimated in the moment.

Vaping (e-Cigarettes): The modern menace

Vaping, often marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, involves inhaling vapour produced by e-cigarettes.

The vapour contains nicotine, flavourings, and various other chemicals. Despite its portrayal as a healthier option for cigarette smoking, scientific studies indicate that vaping can cause inflammation and irritation in the lungs, organ damage, and addiction.

The long-term effects are still not fully understood but evidence points to potential harm from substances like diacetyl, heavy metals, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are delivered to the lungs through vaping.

Dr Srikrishna Raghavendra Boddu, consultant physician at Kamineni Hospitals, said, “Many people who turn to vaping believe it to be a safer option for quitting nicotine. However, they are often unaware of the health risks involved.”

Smoking: The burning issue

Smoking is a well-established health hazard. Tobacco smoke contains over 6,000 chemicals, many of which are toxic and carcinogenic.

Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and various types of cancer. It affects nearly all organs in the body and is the leading cause of preventable death globally.

Scientific evidence of dangers of smoking/vaping

Research underscored the dangers associated with both vaping and smoking. A study published in Respiratory Research indicated that while e-cigarettes may be less harmful than conventional cigarettes, they still pose substantial health risks.

Another study funded by the National Institute of Health found that long-term use of e-cigarettes can significantly impair blood vessel function, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Both vaping and smoking carry significant long-term health risks. Although vaping is often promoted as a safer alternative, the lack of long-term studies and the presence of harmful chemicals suggest otherwise.

Seek professional help to get rid of smoking

Smoking, with its well-documented health hazards, continues to be a major threat. “Both vaping and smoking have detrimental health effects. Public awareness and scientific scrutiny are essential to addressing these modern health crises,” said Dr Boddu.

“As we observe World No Tobacco Day, it is imperative to promote awareness and encourage individuals to seek professional help for nicotine addiction, rather than turning to vaping as a perceived safer alternative. By understanding and addressing the risks, we can work towards a healthier, smoke-free future,” concluded Dr Boddu.