By: Valerie Ann Dismaya
A growing number of lung disease cases globally has been linked to unhealthy lifestyle habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
This June, the Philippines joins the world in observing National No Smoking Month, a campaign encouraging people to quit smoking and protect public health.
From traditional cigarettes to disposables, vapes, and e-cigarettes, the public is still exposed to harmful habits that deteriorate lung health.
Despite ongoing awareness campaigns, many remain indifferent to the dangers.
According to WHO, lung disease causes 3.3 million deaths globally each year, accounting for around 40% of the world population’s health-related fatalities.
Johns Hopkins Medicine further highlights the risks of secondhand smoke.
They reported that over 7,000 individuals diagnosed with lung cancer are non-smokers or people exposed to secondhand smoke.
With the rise of vape and e-cigarette use, many believe these alternatives are safer.
However, Johns Hopkins clarifies that while not as hazardous as traditional cigarettes, these devices are not risk-free either.
Supporting this, the National Institutes of Health found that vapes and e-cigarettes may still cause severe lung conditions, such as acute lung injury and bronchiolitis obliterans, also known as “popcorn lungs”, and even lung cancer.
Ultimately, National No Smoking Month is not just for smokers.
It is also a reminder for everyone to care for their own health and that of others.
