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Health Risks of Tobacco Use

May 30th, 2022

Posts Tagged ‘ Lung Cancer ’

Health Risks of Tobacco Use

Monday, May 30th, 2022

People who smoke die 10 years earlier than those who have never smoked. Smoking and tobacco use causes toxic substances to enter your lungs and spread throughout your body. Toxic chemicals in tobacco smoke reach your brain, heart, and other organs within 10 seconds after your first puff. Tobacco consumption is harmful to practically every part of your body and raises your risk of developing a variety of ailments. Quitting reduces your risk of tobacco induced diseases and can extend your life by several years.

Did you know?

Tobacco use is the one risk factor shared by 4 of the main categories of non-communicable disease. These include cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic lung disease and diabetes.Statistic suggest that tobacco smoke increases the risk for coronary heart disease by 2 to 4 times!Every year health organizations around the world celebrate World No Tobacco Day on 31st May and get together to raise awareness on the harmful effects of tobacco use and to discourage the use of all forms of tobacco.

Tobacco use and cancer

Smokeless tobacco increases the risk of oral cancer whereas smoking is the causebehind a majority of the lung cancer cases. Cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, beedi and pipes can all cause cancer. There is no safe form of tobacco. Additionally, tobacco use also increases the risk for cancers of the: 

  • Larynx (voice box).
  • Pharynx (throat).
  • Cervix.
  • Breast.
  • Esophagus.
  • Kidney.
  • Liver.
  • Bladder.
  • Pancreas.
  • Stomach.
  • Colon/rectum.

How smoking tobacco damages your lungs

Smoking harms your lung’s airways and little air sacs. The damage begins as soon as a person begins smoking, and it continues to deteriorate as long as the person continues to smoke. This can also lead to serious long-term lung disorders as COPD, pneumonia, TB, and asthma. Common respiratory disorders include:

  • COPD
    Damage to the tiny airways in the lungs causes Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), making it difficult for the lungs to provide oxygen to the rest of the body. The most common cause of COPD is smoking.
  • Chronic bronchitis
    Chronic bronchitis affects people who have been smoking for long periods of time. In this disease, the airways make too much mucus, eventually leading to inflammation and increases the risk of dangerous lung infections.
  • Emphysema
    The walls between the small air sacs in the lungs break down in emphysema, resulting in larger but fewer sacs. This reduces the amount of oxygen that reaches the bloodstream, causing poor lung function, including pneumonia.

Tobacco and heart disease

Smoking cigarettes and chewing tobacco damages your heart and blood vessels (cardiovascular system), increasing your risk of heart disease and stroke. Here are the most common heart ailments:

  • It raises blood pressure, reduces exercise capacity, and increases the risk of blood clots. It also lowers the levels of HDL (good) cholesterol in the blood. All of these things increase your chances of having a heart attack or a stroke.
  • It also leads to other conditions that include peripheral arterial disease (PAD), aortic aneurysm and peripheral vascular disease or (PVD).

Tobacco and reproductive health

All forms of tobacco are made up of harmful chemicals that damage your blood vessels and DNA. Here is how it affects your reproductive health:

Women

  • Tobacco usage can have an adverse effect on a woman’s reproductive health. Women who smoke, for example, are more likely to have difficulty conceiving.
  • Women who smoke while pregnant have a higher risk of pregnancy complications, placenta problems, miscarriages and stillbirths, birth defects, premature births and low birth-weight babies.

Men

  • Smoking can cause damage to blood vessels throughout the body. Erectile dysfunction is more common among men who smoke.
  • Smoking can also affect the sperm quality, which can reduce fertility and increase the risk for birth defects.

Other health risks of tobacco use

Tobacco use of all forms can impact a person’s health in a variety of ways, wreaking havoc on practically every organ in the body. Here are some other ways that tobacco might harm your health:

  • Increased risk of gum disease and tooth loss.
  • Premature aging of the skin.
  • Bad breath and stained teeth.
  • Lowered immune system function.
  • Increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
  • Decreased sense of smell and taste.
  • Lower bone density (thinner bones).
  • Higher risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Increased risk for cataracts.
  • Increased risk for age-related macular degeneration.

Many of the health concerns associated with tobacco use can have a negative impact on a person’s quality of life. Quitting smoking and all other forms of tobacco particularly at an early age, can help to reduce smoking-related impairment.

Smoking cessation clinic at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

Do you know someone who is a chain smoker? Are you trying to quit smoking but cannot? The Smoking cessation clinic at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital helps diagnose and manage tobacco addictions. Our team of experts that include chest physicians, psychologists and psychiatrists provide a personalised plan to help you give up tobacco. To learn more about quitting tobacco, click here: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicsatkh/smokingcessationclinic.html

Cancer in India: A growing burden

Wednesday, February 3rd, 2021

India has the third-highest number of cancer cases in the world and it is estimated that 14 lakh new cancer cases were detected in 2020. These alarming statistics also suggest that 1 in 10 Indians will develop cancer during their lifetime and 1 in 15 will die of the disease. Adequate awareness and timely intervention is the need of the hour to help prevent deaths by cancer.

The Disease ‘cancer’ is generally associated with a sense of helplessness, frustration and fear of death. One of the important reasons for this is the misconception that cancer is incurable. While this may be true for certain cancers detected in advanced stages (Stage IV), those diagnosed in early stages and a few cancers even in advanced stages have a fairly good chance of survival. The incidence of cancer is on the rise due to a combination of factors such as changing lifestyles, dietary habits, lack of physical activity and increasing life expectancy. Tobacco abuse, in any form, is the most important cause and risk factor for many cancers – but importantly for cancer of the oral cavity, voice box, lungs and food pipe. Let us work together to strive for a cancer-free world with preventive measures, regular screening, and prompt and advanced cancer treatment.

Symptoms of Cancer
An early diagnosis is as important as prevention to get the best outcomes in cancer treatment. Being aware about cancer in is key to early diagnosis. Here are some of the warning signs of cancer that need further medical attention:

  • Cough or hoarseness that doesn’t go away
  • Blood in sputum, stools or urine
  • Inter menstrual and post menopausal bleeding
  • Lump in breast
  • Unusual lumps anywhere in the body that increase in size
  • Non-healing wound
  • Bleeding from gums
  • Frequent fever or infections
  • Excessive weight loss and loss of appetite
  • Intense and recurrent pain

Risk factors of Cancer
A cancer risk factor highly increases a person’s chance of getting cancer. It is important to know your risk factors and speak to your family doctor about them. General risk factors for cancer include:

  • Family history
  • Older age
  • Obesity
  • Alcohol
  • Using tobacco
  • Certain viral infections, such as human papillomavirus (HPV)
  • Exposure to radiation or chemicals

Prevention of Cancer

At least one-third of the world’s cancer cases are preventable, make the right lifestyle choices to help reduce your risk of getting cancer:

  • Avoid use of all forms of tobacco
  • Say “No” to alcohol
  • Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight
  • Protect your skin from ultraviolet rays
  • Get vaccinated against preventable infections
  • Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables, and whole grains
  • Get regular health checkups

Screening  of Cancer
Regular cancer screening is advocated for early diagnosis and reducing the deaths from cancer in the following circumstances:

  • Breast cancer screening with monthly breast self examination, annual physical examination by a nurse or a physician and sono mammography after age of 45 years
  • Colonoscopy in people who are at high risk of cancer of large intestine
  • Low dose CT scan for smokers
  • Serum PSA for prostate cancer after crossing 50 years, post discussion with your urologist

Cancer treatment at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital
Highly trained oncologists at our Centre for Cancer help facilitate comprehensive cancer care using the most advanced technology. The team offers multidisciplinary care that includes screening, diagnosis, and treatment for cancer patients. It is our continued endeavour to ensure that each and every Indian has access to affordable and world-class cancer care.

To take the fight against cancer to the interiors of the country, Kokilaben Hospital has started Cancer care centres across Maharashtra under Reliance Hospital Cancer Care Centres and we plan to establish 18 cancer care centres across Maharashtra. The Akola, Gondia, and Solapur Reliance Cancer centres are now open and are equipped with the advanced TrueBeam® radiation therapy system.

The Centre for Cancer at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital offers a range of treatment options that include chemotherapy, radiation oncology, surgery, precision oncology, bone marrow transplant, robotic surgery, pain and palliative care as well as rehabilitation care. The team of experts has successfully performed over 12,298 complex cancer surgeries, 642 + complex surgeries for gynaecologic cancers as well as over 2199 breast cancer surgeries in the past. We also offer precision oncology that provides customized cancer care like never before. Our Centre for Cancer is well-equipped with state-of-the-art technology that includes:

  • Day care chemo suites
  • EDGE Radiosurgery system – Asia’s first equipment which enables precise, non-invasive treatments to help patients heal faster.
  • We are the first hospital in India to have Novalis TX machine, which performs high precision surgeries to remove deep-seated tumours.
  • We have the first Trilogy (linear accelerator) in India, which is capable of performing on-board CT scan, KV and MV imaging.

February 4th is marked as World Cancer Day, let us raise the awareness of cancer and encourage its prevention, detection and treatment.  If you or a loved one are a cancer fighter, do know that you are not alone in your fight! If you have any questions or need any assistance regarding cancer do visit: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/landingpage/cancer-mumbai/

About the Author:
Dr. Rajesh Mistry is Director, Oncology at Kokilaben Hospital specializing in Esophageal surgery: VATS and Robotic; Pulmonary surgery (Malignant and Benign): VATS and Robotic; Cancer of Thymus and other mediastinal masses; Chest wall tumours; Gastric Cancer; Head Neck Oncology. He holds a Fellowship in esophageal surgery at Toranomon Hospital, Tokyo under mentorship of Prof. H Akiyama. Find out more by visiting: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/professionals/rajeshmistry.html

Lung Cancer Awareness

Thursday, November 26th, 2020

Lung cancer is the result of damage to normal cells in the lung. The body programs cells to die at a certain stage in their life cycle to avoid overgrowth. Cancer overrides this instruction, causing cells to grow and multiply when they should not. In lung cancer, this pattern of cell overgrowth occurs in the lungs, which are vital organs for breathing and gas exchange. While anyone can develop lung cancer, cigarette smoking, and exposure to pollution highly increases the risk of developing lung cancer.

Around 50 % of  Indians being diagnosed with lung cancer are non-smokers. Air pollution both outdoor and indoor – that includes coal and biomass burning is linked to rising lung cancer cases among non-smokers in India. Lack of awareness, delayed diagnosis, and unavailability of specialist care is the leading cause of lung cancer deaths in India. Most lung cancer cases in India are detected at advanced stages where chances of survival are grim.

Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer symptoms may take years to develop, and often there are no symptoms at all until the later stages of the disease. The early symptoms of lung cancer are often mistaken and ignored. These include:

  • Coughing — A persistent cough that lasts more than two weeks, or coughing up blood
  • Chest infection — Infections, like bronchitis or pneumonia
  • Trouble breathing — Shortness of breath or wheezing
  • Chest discomfort — Chest pain or sudden and severe discomfort
  • Loss of appetite — Many illnesses, including cancer, cause changes in appetite
  • Weight loss — If you are losing weight for no known reason, inform your doctor
  • Fatigue — Excessive tiredness or weakness is a common sign of cancer

Late signs and symptoms of lung cancer:

  • Neck and facial swelling
  • Aching bones or joints
  • Headaches and dizziness
  • Lumps in the neck
  • Pain and swelling around the chest

If you have any of the above symptoms or if you are at high risk for developing lung cancer, consult a cancer specialist. Early diagnosis of lung cancer can be lifesaving and offers best chances of survival.

Risk factors of Lung Cancer
Research has found several risk factors that may increase your chances of getting lung cancer. These include:

  • Smoking – Cigarette smoking is the number one risk factor for lung cancer. Tobacco smoke is a toxic mix of more than 7,000 chemicals out of which at least 70 are known to cause cancer. People who smoke cigarettes are 15 to 30 times more likely to get lung cancer. Second-hand smoke is equally harmful and may also lead to lung cancer.
  • Chemical exposure – Radon is a naturally occurring gas that comes from rocks and dirt and can get trapped in houses and buildings. It cannot be seen, tasted, or smelled however it is may cause lung cancer.
  • Other Substances – Certain occupational exposure to chemicals like asbestos, arsenic, some forms of silica and chromium may harm your lungs and increase the risk of getting lung cancer.
  • Family history – Your risk of lung cancer may be higher if your parents, brothers or sisters, or children have had lung cancer.

Tips for healthy lungs

Here are a few health tips to follow to keep your lungs healthy and strong:

  • Quit smoking and avoid second-hand smoke.
  • Have a healthy diet that is high in fibre and includes at least five portions of fruits and vegetables, and has plenty of whole grains.
  • Exercise regularly and practice breathing techniques to strengthen your lungs.
  • Follow health and safety guidelines in your workplace and avoid carcinogens.
  • Laugh often as it helps replenish the lungs.

Lung Cancer care at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital
Are you showing any symptoms of lung cancer? Meet our highly trained and experienced oncologists for an expert opinion and world-class treatment. Our Centre for Cancer is equipped with high-end technologies that provide excellent outcomes. 50 per cent of surgeries for lung cancer at Kokilaben Hospital are done using Video Assisted Thorocoscopic Surgery (VATS). This is a keyhole surgery that reduces postoperative pain, avoids scars, reduces hospital stay, and helps in fast recovery.

Our Lung cancer experts use state-of-the-art technology such as:

  • Video Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery for lung resection aiding early recovery
  • Robot-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery for early cancer
  • Lung Sparing surgery (including Sleeve Lobectomy)
  • Mediastonscopy for staging
  • Endobronchial Ultrasonography (EBUS)
  • Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT)

If you or a loved one need help for diagnosis, or treatment of lung cancer, consult specialist at our Centre for Cancer. Please find below the link for our website:

https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/centresofexcellence/centrefor_cancer/lungcancer.html