Active and passive smokers are exposed to around 4,000 substances, some of which are toxic and carcinogenic. The doctor warns of the risks of smoking
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tobacco use is considered the leading cause of preventable deaths worldwide, with over 8 million deaths per year. Cigarette smoking is one of the main risk factors for the onset of various chronic diseases.
According to Dr. Luciana Defendi Navarrete, family doctor in charge of the Tobacco Group at UBS Jardim São Bento, managed by CEJAM – “Dr. João Amorim” Study and Research Center, addiction, which in most cases is encouraged by the influence of friends, is related to the development of about 50 pathologies.
“Smoking significantly reduces a person’s life expectancy, as cigarettes contain substances that reduce the amount of oxygen uptake in the body,” he warns. The specialist also explains that tobacco increases the risk of heart attack and cardiovascular disease, as it promotes the formation of atheromas, plaques composed of lipids and fibrous tissue in the arteries.
Furthermore, smoking also has an important influence on the emergence of most cancers and lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and pulmonary emphysema. The doctor also mentions bad breath, or halitosis, which can be aggravated by the habit of smoking, causing uncomfortable and embarrassing situations.
Social harm of smoking
Dr. Luciana stresses that smoking is not an addiction that affects only direct smokers, since the problem can also be suffered by non-smokers who live with the habit. They are called passive smokers.
Even passively, smoking can increase the irritability of the nose, increasing the chances of inflammation and worsening the clinical symptoms of diseases such as asthma, respiratory allergies, rhinitis and sinusitis.
“The passive smoker is exposed to toxic and carcinogenic components found in environmental tobacco smoke, which contains virtually the same composition as the smoke inhaled by the smoker. There are about 4,000 compounds, of which more than 200 are toxic and about 40 are carcinogenic.” the doctor points out.
How to quit smoking?
People who wish to quit smoking can find free and specialized support. This is the National Tobacco Cessation Program, established by the Ministry of Health in 2013. The program was incorporated into Primary Care, with UBS being responsible for guiding smokers.
“The first and most important step is to have the desire and already plan to quit. Subsequently, it is important that the smoker makes an appointment with the family doctor in his region, to carry out the previous exams that will assess whether he is able to participate in the group “, says Dr. Luciana.
In the program, the participant receives guidance on the harmful effects of smoking and psychological and behavioral support, with experiences and physical exercises that will help in the fight against withdrawal. “The important thing about the group is that the former smoker will not fight alone,” she points out.
According to the specialist, most diseases start with a bad experience and customs inherited from the community and family. “We must learn to have quality of life, first researching the seven natural remedies: exercise, healthy nutrition, sun exposure, adequate water, 8 hours of quality sleep, temperance and spirituality”, concludes the doctor.
Source: Terra
Benjamin Smith is a fashion journalist and author at Gossipify, known for his coverage of the latest fashion trends and industry insights. He writes about clothing, shoes, accessories, and runway shows, providing in-depth analysis and unique perspectives. He’s respected for his ability to spot emerging designers and trends, and for providing practical fashion advice to readers.
