World Lung Cancer Day 2024: Ditch these 7 dangers for better lung health, improved respiratory function

Asthma causes: Keep away from common allergens like dust, pollen, and mold that may trigger asthma or any other respiratory problems (Image: Canva)

Unhealthy lungs can be caused due to persistent coughing, wheezing, and even shortness of breath. This makes your everyday life more challenging and disturbing. On the other hand, keeping your lungs healthy helps to prevent serious pathologies, such as lung cancer, which can affect your quality of life.

The major cause of lung cancer is smoking. However, other factors like secondhand smoke, air pollution, and asbestos can also add to the risk. Moreover, predisposing genetic factors or pre-existing conditions of the lungs can further contribute to the development of the disease.

A study published in the National Institutes of Health suggests that lung cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide, accounting for about 12.4 percent of cancer cases, and individually, the greatest cause of mortality from cancers. The Global Cancer Statistics 2020 report highlighted approximately 1.8 million lung cancer deaths globally.

In order to live a robust life and maintain healthy lungs and reduce the risks of lung diseases including lung cancer, here are a few things you need to avoid:

Quit smoking: Avoid all forms of tobacco like cigarettes and cigars. Smoking is the leading cause of chronically progressive lung diseases, COPD, and lung cancer. It damages tissue in the lungs, decreases lung function, and alters the body's ability to clear mucus and other pathogens from the lungs.

Avoid air pollution: Avoid areas that have high readings of air pollution. PM 2.5, a fine particulate matter, can lodge deep inside lungs and cause respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, and decreased lung function. The risk of heart diseases and stroke becomes greater in the case of long-term exposure.

Also read: Indians lose 5.3 years of life to air pollution, finds study. Delhiites lose 11.9 years

Don’t inhale chemicals: Avoid inhaling fumes from cleaning products, paints, and industrial substances. Inhaling volatile organic compounds (VOC) and other toxins can negatively impact your health, causing respiratory irritation, exacerbating asthma, and contributing to chronic lung diseases.

Ditch laziness: Stay active to keep yourself healthy and your lungs happy. Routine physical activity improves lung capacity, strengthens respiratory muscles, and enhances total cardiovascular health. Exercise helps to maintain a healthy body weight, which is vital for the functioning of the lungs.

Steer clear of allergens: Keep away from common allergens like dust, pollen, and mold that may trigger asthma or any other respiratory problem. Allergens may lead to inflammation and increase the symptoms in those suffering with asthma or chronic respiratory issues. Try to keep your living area clean and free from allergens as it helps to manage and prevent asthma and other respiratory problems.

Also read | Home remedies for seasonal allergies: Try neti pot to clear sinuses, plus other tips to avoid cold, cough, fever

Improve indoor air quality: Keep your home and workplace well-ventilated to avoid the buildup of indoor air pollution. Weak ventilation allows indoor pollutants like  carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and radon, to accumulate in high concentrations, posing a danger to your lungs in the long run.

Stop avoiding health check-ups: Never disregard your body’s signals. Regular health check-ups are important for the early detection of lung problems. Annual exams and screenings, which include spirometry tests, help detect conditions like chronic bronchitis or lung cancer at an early stage, and allows timely intervention and management.