Passive smoking is as dangerous as smoking tobacco (Photo credit: EveryPixel)
New Delhi: Lung cancer is the most common and the most often diagnosed cancer across the world. It is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the world. In India, lung cancer accounts for 5.9 per cent of all cancers and 8.1 per cent of all cancer-related deaths. In India, the prevalence of smoking in patients with lung cancer is about 80 per cent. A major risk factor for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) tobacco use causes fatalities of over 8 million people each year around the globe. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, in India, tobacco-related cancers accounted for 27 per cent of the country’s cancer burden in 2020.
Dr Vidit Kapoor Assistant Professor Department of Medical Oncology, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad told News9, “Cigarette smoking is the most common cause of lung cancer. A person’s risk of developing lung cancer is 10 to 30 times more as compared to a person who doesn’t smoke. All forms of tobacco use, including pipes, cigars, and chewing tobacco, can cause cancer of the lungs. The risk of lung cancer spikes with the number of cigarettes smoked each day and the number of years of smoking. Consistent and long-term Second-hand smoking, which is the involuntary inhalation of tobacco smoke by non-smokers who are in the vicinity of active smokers, can also lead to lung cancer.”
How should awareness be promoted?
“Promoting awareness involves educating the public about the health risks of smoking and focussing on the association between smoking and lung cancer. Encouraging smoking cessation is a key component of awareness efforts. Highlighting the benefits of quitting such as improved lung health and reduced cancer risk, can motivate individuals to make positive lifestyle changes. Providing resources for services like counselling, stress reduction activities like yoga and meditation and information on cessation methods including nicotine replacement products and medications can enhance the effectiveness of promotion campaigns,” said Dr Kapoor.
Rohit Malhotra is a medical expert and health journalist who offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being. His articles aim to help readers lead healthier lives.
