Take a deep breath. Now let it out.

Your lungs are amazing organs and are vital parts of your respiratory system. They bring in fresh air and rid your body of toxins, thousands of times a day. They work hard, so you should do your part to keep them healthy.

November is Lung Cancer Awareness month—the perfect time for you to learn about your lungs, what diseases they are susceptible to, and how you can protect them.

Lung Disease

Your lungs are made of delicate tissues and they are directly connected to the environment. Everything you breathe in—from fresh air to germs to pollution—will affect them. If they are damaged by smoke, chemicals, and other toxins, your lungs may stop working properly and you could develop lung disease. Here are some issues to consider.

• Lung cancer: You may be surprised to learn that lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States. In fact, more people die from lung cancer than from breast, prostate, ovarian, lymph, and colon cancers combined. Cigarette smoking is the main cause of lung cancer, but secondhand smoke, air pollution, and exposure to other toxins can also be factors.

• COPD: Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are two types of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A progressive condition marked by difficulty breathing, COPD can be caused by exposure to smoke, chemicals, and pollution.

• Asthma: This chronic condition is often diagnosed in childhood, and it is characterized by coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Asthma can be caused by respiratory infections, chemical exposure, and secondhand smoke.

• Influenza: The flu is very contagious, and everyone is at risk. For people with asthma or other lung problems, it can be particularly serious.

Lung Protection

Your body has a natural defense system to keep your lungs healthy, but if you are exposed to too many toxins, your body can’t keep up. Here are some guidelines for keeping your lungs in tip-top shape.

• Don’t smoke. Cigarette smoke contains thousands of chemicals that can cause cancer and many other diseases. If you don’t smoke, don’t start. And if you do smoke, make every effort to quit. November 18 is the Great American Smokeout—what a great time to kick the cigarette habit.

• Watch your smoke exposure. If people around you smoke, ask them to stop. Or suggest they do it somewhere else. Whether it’s at home or work, find ways to make your environment smoke-free.

• Keep an eye on pollution. Pay attention to pollution levels in your town or city, and be sure not to exercise outside on bad days. Do what you can to limit your exposure to pollution.

• Get checked out. Exposure to radon and asbestos can harm your lungs. Have your home checked for these toxins, and find out if your workplace is clear of them.

• Steer clear of infections. Your respiratory system can be harmed by colds and infections, so try to stay healthy. Get the flu vaccine each year, wash your hands often, and if possible, try to avoid sick people during cold and flu season.

To learn more about lung health and preventing lung cancer, contact Plantation General Hospital. Visit us online or call Consult-A-Nurse® at 1-866-442-2362. Serving Plantation and Central Broward County, we’re here to answer all your questions.

Sources:

Plantation General Hospital
American Lung Association
Lung Cancer Alliance
LungCancer.org

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