Lung health: Non-smoker? You can still be at risk of developing respiratory issues – Here is why

While the reason for lung diseases like lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease has long been linked with smoking, an alarming expand in cases has been observed even amongst non-smokers, majorly brought on by passive smoking and air pollution. Smoking is a first-rate reason for lung diseases corresponding to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer. Quitting smoking can significantly toughen lung health and cut back the risk of developing these diseases.

Alternatively, a significant expand in respiratory cases has been observed even amongst non-smokers, said experts.

“These are mostly traced to an increased exposure to 2nd-hand smoke and increased air pollution, that are significant risk factors for lung disease. Microscopic pollutants have been found to penetrate the lungs and cause cell damage and inflammation within them, which over time, can induce cancerous mutations,” Dr. Sunil Kumar K, Lead Consultant – Interventional Pulmonology, Aster CMI Sanatorium, Bengaluru, told IANS.

“Such chronic exposure to polluted air no longer best harms lung tissue but slowly weakens the immune defense of the body. Even for people who've never smoked, passive smoking poses a serious threat. Breathing in smoke from the environment from a person smoking nearby or lingering smoke indoors will likely be just as harmful,” the expert added.

The residual toxins even from 1/3-hand smoke that make a decision on surfaces also put individuals, specifically kids and pets, at risk of health problems.

The World Health Organization notes that ninety 9 per cent of the arena’s population breathes unhealthy air. Climate change is a first-rate driver of air pollution, that can impact lung health. Kids, older adults, and individuals with existing respiratory conditions are specifically vulnerable.

Other risk factors for lung problems in non-smokers encompass childhood respiratory infections that can succeed in adulthood also, Dr Kuldeep Kumar Grover, Head of Critical Care and Pulmonology – CK Birla Sanatorium, Gurugram told IANS.

“Repeated childhood infections may result in bronchiectasis in lungs, and cystic problems also will destroy lungs,” the expert said

Lung problems corresponding to Respiratory infections, COPD, asthma, and TB infections are essentially the most typical among non-smokers, majorly brought on by low immunity levels, Grover said.

In accordance with Kumar, people in occupations like mining or construction are much more susceptible as they're continuously exposed to cancer causing agents, dust, and smoke, which disrupts their health.

Lifestyle conditions like obesity, or engaging in minimal physical activity also predispose people to diseases by decreasing lung function.

“While smoking remains a familiar risk factor, a lot more is required to give protection to our lungs than avoiding cigarettes. We want cleaner air, smoke-free spaces, and an improved understanding of a bunch the hidden dangers we’re exposed to on each and every day basis,” Kumar said.