PharmEasy Blog

Does Vaping Cause Cancer? Exploring The Health Implications

Key Highlights

Introduction

As the popularity of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and vaping continues to grow, so does the debate over their safety. Hundreds of thousands of people are turning to these devices for their nicotine fixes, hoping to reduce their exposure to the harmful chemicals found in traditional cigarettes. This has led many people to question whether or not vaping is a safer alternative to smoking and, more specifically, if it causes cancer. In this blog post, we will explore the health implications of vaping, including its connection to cancer, other health risks and its role in smoking cessation.

To fully understand the issue, it is essential to first understand the basics of vaping, the components of e-cigarettes, and the research that has been conducted on the topic. With that foundation, we will dive into more specific details surrounding cancer risks, other health concerns, and additional factors tied to vaping.

Did you know?

The basics of vaping

Before discussing the health implications of vaping, it is important to understand what e-cigarettes are, how they work and their components.

1. What are e-cigarettes?

E-cigarettes are battery-operated devices that allow users to inhale a vaporised solution, known as e-liquid or vape juice. The e-liquid typically contains nicotine, propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin and flavouring agents.

2. What is vaping?

Vaping refers to the act of inhaling the aerosol (often referred to as vapour) created by an e-cigarette or vaping device. The term “vapour” is somewhat misleading, as the aerosol produced by e-cigarettes contains particles and chemicals—not just water vapour.

3. How do e-cigarettes work?

E-cigarettes work by heating a liquid solution (e-liquid) containing nicotine, propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin and flavourings. The heating element within the device turns the liquid into an aerosol, which users then inhale into their lungs.

4. The components of e-cigarettes

The key components of e-cigarettes include base liquids, nicotine content and flavours. Understanding these individual parts can help shed light on the potential health risks associated with vaping.

E-liquids consist of a base liquid made up of propylene glycol or vegetable glycerin, referred to as PG and VG, respectively. These substances are generally considered safe by the FDA and are commonly used in food, cosmetics and pharmaceutical products. However, their inhalation after being heated can be harmful.

Nicotine is the primary addictive substance found in cigarettes and e-cigarettes. E-liquids can contain varying levels of nicotine, with some even claiming to be nicotine-free (although some studies have found unlisted nicotine in such products). Nicotine exposure is associated with increased cancer risk and adverse effects on adolescent and young adult brain development.

E-cigarettes offer a wide variety of flavours. Some studies have shown that certain flavourings may be more toxic than others, while others can react with base liquids, creating potentially harmful chemical compounds. For example, diacetyl (a buttery/popcorn flavour) has been linked to severe respiratory illnesses.

Here’s a brief overview of the main components in e-cigarettes:

ComponentDescription
Base Liquids (Propylene Glycol or Vegetable Glycerin)Generally considered safe by FDA; potential inhalation effects unknown.
Nicotine ContentAddictive substance associated with increased cancer risk and harmful effects on brain health.
FlavoursCan vary greatly; some flavours may be more toxic than others; possible reactions with base liquids.

Vaping is not al all safer. It definitely increases the risk of cancers and additction in people.

Dr. Arpit Verma, MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Vaping and Cancer: understanding the connection

Is there a definitive connection between vaping and cancer? Studies have been conducted in an attempt to answer this question, but it remains complex due to several factors.

1. Overview of research on vaping and cancer

Research on the relationship between vaping and cancer is still relatively new and emerging. As vaping devices have only been marketed in the U.S. for about a decade, long-term studies on the effects of vaping on cancer risk are not yet available.

2. Factors influencing cancer risk

There are several factors to consider when evaluating the potential cancer risk associated with vaping, including nicotine content, juice flavours and certain ingredients.

As previously discussed, nicotine is associated with increased cancer risk and e-liquids often contain varying levels of nicotine. Exposure to nicotine through vaping may contribute to an increased risk of developing cancer.

Certain e-liquid flavouring agents have been shown to be more toxic than others, potentially increasing cancer risk. For example, the use of diacetyl in e-liquids has been linked to serious respiratory illnesses.

3. Ingredients to avoid

Although e-cigarette manufacturers are required to submit an ingredient list to the FDA, they are not required to list e-juice ingredients on product labels. Therefore, it can be difficult for consumers to know what ingredients their e-cigarette contains. However, it may be helpful to avoid e-liquids containing certain flavouring chemicals that are potentially harmful, such as diacetyl and acetyl propionyl.

Considering these factors can give us a better understanding of vaping-related cancer risks:

FactorDescription
Nicotine ContentAssociated with increased cancer risk
Juice FlavoursSome, like diacetyl, are considered harmful
Potentially Harmful IngredientsDifficult for users to identify due to lack of labelling requirements

Although vaping can help some people quit smoking and is usually cheaper than smoking, please note that it is not completely harmless and can cause you to inhale ultrafine particles and chemicals directly into the lung which are associated with serious lung diseases.

Dr Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D. in Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology

Other health risks associated with vaping

In addition to cancer risks, there are several other potential health problems associated with vaping, ranging from lung diseases to negative consequences like heart disease and brain development impact.

1. Lung diseases and complications

Some studies have suggested that vaping can lead to lung diseases and complications such as chronic bronchitis, asthma and reduced lung function. E-cigarette aerosol contains chemicals that can cause inflammation in the lungs and may contribute to the development of lung disease.

Although e-cigarettes may expose users to fewer harmful chemicals than cigarettes, the effects on lung health are still uncertain. But considering it safer, people often use this excessively hence increasing the health risks. 

“Popcorn lung,” or bronchiolitis obliterans, is a rare but serious lung condition that can result from inhaling diacetyl—a chemical found in some e-cigarette flavourings. 

2. Mouth cancer

While not as well-studied as lung health, some evidence suggests that exposure to the chemicals in e-cigarette aerosol could increase one’s risk for mouth cancer. 

3. Negative consequences of vaping

Beyond lung health and potential cancer risks, vaping carries other potential health risks. These may include

Several studies have raised concerns about the impact of e-cigarette use on heart health. One study found that e-cigarette users had higher odds of having a heart attack, coronary artery disease and depression than non-users. However, more research is needed to draw definitive conclusions.

Nicotine, a common ingredient in e-liquids, can harm brain development in young individuals. Studies have shown that adolescents and young adults exposed to nicotine are at risk for cognitive, memory and attention deficits.

Nicotine addiction is a significant concern for e-cigarette users, particularly youth. The use of e-cigarettes may lead to nicotine dependence, which can make quitting difficult and potentially increase the risk of transitioning to cigarette smoking.

Exploring the overall health risks associated with vaping:

Health RiskDescription
Lung Diseases and ComplicationsPotential for chronic bronchitis, asthma, lung function issues
Mouth CancerEvidence suggesting increased risk due to e-cigarette aerosol
Negative ConsequencesHeart diseases, brain development impact, addiction

According to NHANES data, survey in USA, e-cigarette users or vaping had an early age of cancer onset and higher risk of cancer.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka – MBBS, MD(Pediatrics)

Also Read: Does Air Fryer Cause Cancer? Unveiling the Facts Behind the Question

Can vaping help with smoking cessation?

Many people turn to e-cigarettes as a method for quitting traditional cigarettes, but whether they are effective as smoking cessation tools remains debated.

1. Evaluating e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation tool

E-cigarettes are not currently approved by the FDA as aids for quitting smoking. There are much safer alternatives that can be advised by your doctor to help with smoking cessation. E-cigarettes are not recommended for this. 

2. Secondhand exposure to E-cigarette aerosol

Exposure to e-cigarette aerosol or secondhand “vapour” presents health risks for those in the vicinity of someone vaping.

3. Health implications of secondhand e-cigarette aerosol exposure

Secondhand exposure to e-cigarette aerosol can be harmful, as the aerosol contains nicotine, ultrafine particles, flavourings and other chemicals associated with health problems. Young children, pregnant women and people with pre-existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable to the potential harms of secondhand aerosol exposure.

Comparison with secondhand cigarette smoke

While secondhand e-cigarette aerosol has been found to contain fewer toxic chemicals than secondhand cigarette smoke, it is not without risk. More research is needed to better understand the potential health consequences of secondhand exposure to e-cigarette aerosol and how it compares to the well-documented dangers of secondhand cigarette smoke.

Examining the effects of secondhand e-cigarette aerosol:

AspectDescription
Health ImplicationsSecondhand exposure to aerosol can be harmful
Comparison to Secondhand SmokeContains fewer toxic chemicals, but not without risk

Conclusion

With the rapid increase in e-cigarette use and the ongoing debate surrounding their safety, it is crucial for individuals to be well-informed about the potential health implications of vaping. It is crucial to understand that both cigarettes and E-cigarettes are very harmful to your body and environment. The presence of carcinogenic ingredients in e-cigarettes poses a potential threat of cancers. E-cigarettes have been banned in India and It is not advisable to opt for e-cigarettes in any case.

Also Read: Does Vaping Make Your Teeth Yellow: Exploring Dental Impact of Vaping

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can vaping give you mouth cancer?

While the potential link between vaping and mouth cancer is not fully understood, some evidence suggests that exposure to e-cigarette aerosol could increase the risk of mouth cancer.

What are the real dangers of vaping?

The real dangers of vaping range from lung diseases and mouth cancer to negative consequences such as heart diseases, brain development impact and addiction.

Is vaping worse than smoking?

While current research suggests that vaping is less harmful than smoking, the long-term effects of vaping are not yet fully understood.

What are the 3 negative consequences of vaping?

Three negative consequences of vaping include lung diseases, heart diseases and brain development impact in young individuals.

Does vaping increase your risk for a certain type of cancer?

Vaping has been linked to an increased risk of lung, oral and bladder cancers. However, more research is needed to solidify these connections and explore potential links to other types of cancer.

References:

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Outbreak of Lung Injury Associated with the Use of E-Cigarette, or Vaping, Products [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jun 26]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/severe-lung-disease.html
  2. American Cancer Society. Key Statistics for Lung Cancer [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jun 26]. Available from: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/non-small-cell-lung-cancer/about/key-statistics.html
  3. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Flavoring Chemicals in E-Cigarettes: Diacetyl, 2,3-Pentanedione, and Acetoin in a Sample of 51 Products, Including Fruit-, Candy-, and Cocktail-Flavored E-Cigarettes – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jun 26]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4892929
  4. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Electronic cigarettes: overview of chemical composition and exposure estimation – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jun 26]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4304610
  5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Exposures to Flavoring Chemicals [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jun 26]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/flavorings/exposure.html
  6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Electronic Cigarette Use Among U.S. Adults, 2018 [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jun 26]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db365.htm
  7. American Lung Association. Search Albert Rizzo, M.D., FACP [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jun 26]. Available from: https://www.lung.org/media/meet-our-experts/al-rizzo
  8. American Lung Association. Learn About Bronchiolitis Obliterans [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jun 26]. Available from: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/popcorn-lung/learn-about-popcorn-lung#
  9. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). quitSTART App [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jun 26]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/quit-smoking/quitstart-app/index.html
  10. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 1-800-QUIT-NOW: 15 Years of Helping People Quit [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jun 26]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/features/quitlines/index.html
  11. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Surgeon General’s Advisory on E-cigarette Use Among Youth [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jun 26]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/surgeon-general-advisory/index.html
  12. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Media [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jun 26]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/media

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

1

How Does Weather Affect COPD?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a blanket term that is used for some conditions related to the respiratory system, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. COPD symptoms can be triggered by various causes such as cigarette or cigar smoke, smog or other kinds of air pollution, strong fumes from perfumes or other scented products.

COPD-related symptoms can become more aggravated due to changes in weather and extreme weather conditions. This is why COPD patients need to be especially careful about the weather. COPD patients need to look out for the temperature being too cold, too hot, too windy, and thunderstorms. Research in this area has shown the ideal temperature for COPD patients is around 21 degrees Celsius with a humidity of 40%. In such weather conditions, the body’s airways can be relaxed, minimising the chances of symptoms showing up.

When the weather is too cold

If the temperature falls below 0 degrees, then the level of humidity in the air also falls. A humidity level that is below 10% can cause mucous membranes to dry up. This type of dry air is likely to irritate air passages in your body, causing symptoms to flare up. A condition of low humidity caused by cold weather can also make it harder for your body to produce fluids that help it move viruses and bacteria. If you have COPD, you might also face allergy symptoms in such dry conditions.

Moreover, cold weather is often accompanied by strong winds. If the weather is cold and windy, and the patient has to walk against the wind, it can create resistance. Further, cold temperatures can also fatigue COPD patients quickly.

Temperature and weather can cause COPD symptoms to worsen. Cold, dry air or hot air can trigger a flare-up. According to a study, temperature extremes, below freezing and above 90°F (32°C), are particularly dangerous.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

When the weather is too hot

COPD symptoms can also increase significantly when the weather is too hot. Further, hot weather can also lead to high levels of humidity. For most COPD patients, high levels of humidity can also cause a greater incidence of symptoms.

Hot weather is especially a cause for concern when the temperature hits above 32 degrees Celsius. Breathing in hot air has been known to cause inflammation in the lining of airways in patients with COPD or asthma. Smog levels also commonly rise during the summer heat. Pollution in the air has been known to cause symptoms in COPD patients.

Prevention techniques

There are certain ways in which COPD patients can meet the challenges caused by the weather. These prevention techniques are in addition to any COPD treatment that you may be undertaking.

Moving or relocating

A common solution for COPD patients is to relocate to a geographic area where the weather is more suitable. However, moving or relocating can be a drastic step and moving your home is not the only solution to battle the weather for COPD patients. Further, relocating can be quite difficult since different COPD patients need different types of weather. For example, humidity can be a huge problem for certain COPD patients, while others may not get significantly affected.

Keep a tab on the weather

The best way to combat the weather as a COPD patient is to keep a daily tab on the weather forecast. You may need to plan your days around the weather to ensure smooth functioning. For example, you may want to do all your shopping on days when the weather is suitable.

Wear a scarf during cold weather

If the weather outside is cold, be sure to cover your nose and mouth with a scarf. This will warm and humidify the air before going into your airways and provide you with some protection.

Always carry your medication

If you’re stepping outside your home, remember to carry your medications regardless of the weather conditions. You never know when a change in the weather can cause your symptoms to act up.

Brought to you by Cipla

Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.

4

Vaping: Meaning, Risks and Truths You Must Know

What is Vape and an E-cigarette?

An electric vape or an e-cigarette is a device that runs on batteries and heats up a liquid and creates a vapour that you inhale. The liquid can contain several chemicals, including nicotine and some flavouring. 

Vaping is gaining a lot of popularity and there are many types of vaping devices, such as vape pens, e-cigarettes and vape hookahs. While several people believe that vaping is better than smoking, is vaping safe? Vaping still involves many health risks and we shall find out more about the harmful effects of vaping in this article. 

How does vaping work?

Vaping devices come in different shapes, sizes and colours. They produce an aerosol byproduct when they electrically heat the liquid. Depending upon the type of product used, The vape e-liquid may deliver ingredients such as:

The liquid is often called “e-juice”, “vape juice,” or “vape liquid”. When a person inhales the vapour, it goes into the lungs and bloodstream and it is expelled from the mouth or nose. Not only people who are vaping but also bystanders can breathe in this aerosol when the user exhales it into the air.

In the year 2022, almost 1 in 10 or more than 2.5 million U.S. middle and high school students used e-cigarettes over the past 30 days. The rise of e-cigarette use among middle school and high school students increases overall tobacco use. 

CDC strongly advises against the use of all THC-containing e-cigarettes or vaping products. Data indicates that using vaping products more than five times daily is associated with a higher risk of developing EVALI(E-cigarette or vaping-associated lung injury).

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Vaping health risks 

Nicotine is a highly addictive substance present in vape e-liquid. If compared to regular cigarettes, it is present in a much lesser amount in a vape; vaping does not involve the smoke and tar of a regular cigarette. However, it still contains harmful substances which enter your body and may cause several health issues. Some of the vaping health risks you must be aware of are:

Read More About 10 Tips on How To Quit Smoking

5 Facts about vaping

1: Vaping may be less harmful than smoking, but it’s still not safe. Even nicotine-free vaping may prove to be harmful to you as it contains several other toxic products which cause lung injuries and damage.

2: Research suggests vaping is bad for your heart and lungs. Nicotine raises your blood pressure and increases your risk of having a heart attack.

3: Electronic cigarettes are just as addictive as traditional ones as both contain nicotine and if you get addicted to them, you will suffer withdrawal symptoms when you ignore the craving. E-cigarette users can buy extra-strength cartridges with a higher concentration of nicotine. 

4: Vaping and e-cigarettes are promoted as ways to help you quit cigarette smoking, but they may not work as intended. Most people who intend to use e-cigarettes to kick the smoking habit end up continuing to use traditional e-cigarettes.

5: A new generation is finding e-cigarettes better than any traditional tobacco product. They are using flavoured e-cigarettes and these have a lower per-use cost than traditional cigarettes. This is proving to be a dangerous habit.

Also Read: Does Vaping Cause Cancer? Exploring The Health Implications

Vaping vs cigarette smoking

Neither smoking nor vaping is good for human health. Even though vape liquids contain fewer contaminants than cigarettes, they are not entirely safe. Vaping exposes a person to several other harmful substances than just nicotine and slows down the brain in fetuses, children and teens. The long-term effects of vaping are lung damage, cancer, weak immune system etc.

Smoking can damage all your body organs and it increases the risk of cancer and death. Some other long-term effects of smoking are reduced sperm count, respiratory problems, increased risk of cataracts, impaired immune function, inflammation in different parts of the body, blockages in the veins and arteries and stroke. 

Conclusion

It’s time we must understand the significance of practising healthy habits and staying away from unhealthy ones. People have started taking their health seriously and vaping or smoking must never be practised. In the case of vaping, it is hard to tell how much of the harmful chemicals are being inhaled and people tend to think it is much less than regular smoking, but addiction is equally harmful and you must understand the long-term vaping health risks and avoid it as well as smoking, at all costs. 

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

9

World No Tobacco Day – Battle Your Enemy, The Cigarette!

World No Tobacco Day – Battle Your Enemy, The Cigarette!

The World Health Organisation has pulled out all stops to drive home the fact that tobacco is lethal. And that is why they have designated May 31st as World No Tobacco Day. This is the day that campaigns are launched to remind people to steer clear of tobacco. This year’s theme is focused to protect the environment ”tobacco is killing us and our planet”. Tobacco consumption is not just about smoking but also about the smokeless forms available as gutkha and pan masala. It is important to understand that tobacco consumption in any form and any quantity is extremely harmful to our health and our planet.”.

Here are some problems caused by tobacco consumption:

  1. Cancer Risk

Whether you are puffing on a cigarette, a cigar, pipe, hookah or chewing tobacco, the most fearful outcome of regular consumption of tobacco is an increased risk of cancers in your body which can take away your life, health and wealth. 

2. Lung Damage

Your lungs have delicate little air sacks that cannot survive an onslaught of constant smoking. The smoke also damages the air passages leading in and out of the lungs. Once you begin to smoke regularly, infection sets in. With continued smoking, the infection worsens and gradually paves the way for lung cancer. Moreover, it aggravates asthma and pneumonia.

3. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

This is a dangerous illness and unfortunately, there is no permanent cure. The more you smoke and the longer the duration of smoking, the greater the chances of your coming down with COPD. Some symptoms include:

4. Heart Disorders –

Smoking causes your blood pressure to soar which makes you susceptible to Peripheral Arterial Disease. Plaque starts to accumulate along your blood vessels. This thickens them and makes them inflexible which restricts the supply of blood to the heart. If this continues for long, the muscles of the heart will start to die. This escalates the risk of a heart attack.

5. Makes you prone to diabetes –

Smokers are actually much more likely to get Type 2 diabetes than non-smokers are. It makes your body resistant to insulin. And if you had already been diagnosed with this debilitating disease before you picked up the habit of smoking, then it will make the symptoms worse.

6. Other  health effects of smoking  –

What should you do?

You need to stop consuming tobacco the right way. But if you are a chain smoker, maybe you will have to gradually wean yourself off smoking. So, in the meantime try a nicotine patch or other substitutes for nicotine with a doctor’s advice and undergo the following tests to assess the state of your health:

Smoking cessation is nowadays aided by many medicines, nicotine replacement and psychotherapy but the big problem is that while many people can cease smoking for a few days, the urge to smoke is overwhelming and relapse rates are high.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

The Government’s preventive measures against consuming tobacco

It is the 21st century and the dependency of a large chunk of people still hangs on tobacco, one of the foremost preventable causes of death, killing almost half of the population in the world. According to WHO’s Global Tobacco Epidemic, 2015, tobacco is consumed and affects 14.6 per cent of the youth and 14 percent of the adult population. Governments all over the world issue notices and advertisements against the consumption of tobacco, yet 6 million people die due to diseases caused by tobacco, while 0.6 million due to second-hand (passive) smoking. 

Compared to no smoking, smoking even one cigarette per day carries a 40-50 times risk of heart disease and stroke, so be mindful when you think of smoking even one cigarette per day.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.

Also Read: Why Does Nicotine Make You Poop: Decoding Its Effects on Digestion

The Government of India has taken certain steps to curb smoking as well as other forms of tobacco consumption:

The Government of India has banned certain kinds of smokeless tobacco products like gutkha and pan masala under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Other tobacco products are regulated by the COTPA 2003 which contains provisions, like

Certain states like Rajasthan, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Jharkhand had the highest number of tobacco users in India, especially the states of the North. The state governments/union territories of these states and UTs have issued orders/notifications regarding a ban on the sale of loose cigarettes.

Smoking & consuming tobacco can have a terrible impact on your health. This World No Tobacco Day, vow to lay off tobacco not just to avert the ailments it triggers but also for the sake of your loved ones.

Read More: How To Quit Smoking?

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.

1
1

How Does Smoking Increase The Risk Of COVID-19?

Introduction 

COVID-19 has turned people’s attention more towards their health. However, there were some aspects like smoking that people were unaware of while taking care of themselves. Some conflicting articles speculated on the smoker’s risk of COVID-19.

In addition, some even highlighted the risk of smoking in this pandemic. Initially, WHO reported that smoking amplifies the risk of contracting COVID-19. However, instead of all these contradictions, the researchers are still busy finding the conclusion to this evidence.

Data from 6,717 suggests that, Adults who received hospital care for COVID-19, researchers found adults who used tobacco or electronic cigarettes were more likely to experience severe complications compared to non-smokers. Based on these data, they found adults who smoked had a 15% greater chance of requiring mechanical ventilation and a 41% greater chance of death compared to non-smokers.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Smoking and COVID-19

Smoking increases health hazards during the pandemic. There were many warnings by the medical teams about how smoking and COVID-19 are related. But, people considered smoking for coping with the mechanism of stress, pandemic anxiety and the lockdown. They found mental peace in smoking. 

But, many of them were unaware of the fact that smoking increases the risk of COVID-19. As a result, in fear of the COVID-19, many people have quit smoking, while some are still unable to process the fact that it might kill them. 

Health should be the topmost priority for everyone. So, the Indian medical experts were propagating the ill effects of smoking on people’s health. Even teenagers these days are addicted to smoking or vaping. So, it’s essential to understand the smoker’s risk of COVID-19.

It is a significant concern in the country as teenagers fail to understand the dangers associated with smoking. The TCH present in vapes and cigarettes is hazardous and can cause fatal lung disease. 

Read more about Vaping: Meaning, Risks and Truths You Must Know

Risks of smoking during the pandemic

Studies show that smokers are more vulnerable to the risk of contracting COVID-19. The Indian Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued some dangers of smoking and tobacco usage during the pandemic. Smokers can make 50% more susceptible to the virus than normal people with these risks:

One must understand the grave danger of the points mentioned above to understand the smoker’s risk of COVID-19. 

Tobacco compromises lung function, and COVID-19 primarily affects the lungs, evidence indicates that smokers are more likely to suffer more severe outcomes of COVID-19, such as admission into intensive care units and death, than never-smokers.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.

How were people able to quit their habit during the lockdown?

Many of the people got restricted from going out of their houses. This stopped them from buying cigarettes, vapes or any tobacco products. Staying home makes it easier to quit smoking or tobacco.

Lockdowns also improved family support. They may prove to be of tremendous help to help people quit smoking. Family members help them to resist smoking and motivate them to get rid of this habit. Once you understand how smoking and lung functions are related and affect your health, it adds as a motivation to quit and opt for a better life. 

People get adapted to smoking when they find it as a way to escape from reality. But, during the pandemic, these people took mental health support. The support team takes care of their mental health. Thus, people got detached from smoking or consuming tobacco. 

Quit it easy 

Seeking professional help is always a good idea if you want to quit smoking. A psychiatrist can help you develop insight and set realistic goals to help you quit smoking easily. If you are a heavy smoker and unable to quit the habit by motivation alone, your doctor may prescribe you some medicines available in the form of chewable gums and patches for a given period of time and reduce the dose gradually to ease the process of quitting smoke. It is important to be honest with your doctor and continue the follow up and treatment as advised.

Also Read: Does Vaping Cause Cancer? Exploring The Health Implications

Health hazards caused by smoking

  1. People who smoke have a higher chance of losing their eyesight over the age of 65.
  2. People with type-2 diabetes are affected because of smoking. In this case, poor blood flows to the legs and feet that can cause you to lose them.
  3. Male sexual functions get affected due to smoking. For example, it causes erectile dysfunction in them.
  4. Women who smoke can undergo Ectopic pregnancy. This type of pregnancy is a risk to the life of mothers as it can cause them death.
  5. Smokers have a low bone density. As a result, it can cause fractures more often in the body of people.
  6. Smoking has been a cause of colorectal cancer in the intestines. This type of cancer can prove to be fatal. 

Read more about Does Vaping Cause Cancer? Exploring The Health Implications

Conclusion 

Smoking has never been a health concern for many people. However, whether it is during the pandemic or not, smoking is always harmful to our health. Smoking not only increases the risks of infection for the smoker but passive smokers as well. Seek social support and stay connected with your family. Talking to people will help you lower the stress and anxiety in your mind.

Quitting smoke has always been a tough job for any person. In this case, it is necessary to set goals as to when to smoke. Keep decreasing the number of cigarettes day by day. Stop looking towards it as the only factor to keep you happy. Instead, look around and get addicted to some of your favourite hobbies. Keeping yourself busy in other activities will divert your mind from smoking and give you the will to be happy by yourself. We must take as many precautionary steps and try our best to avoid an increased risk of infection. 

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

1

Diabetes And Smoking: A Deadly Combination?

We all know that smoking is bad for our health but diabetes and smoking are a deadly combination. Many kinds of cancers and cardiovascular diseases are linked to it. There is not one organ that is not affected negatively by smoking. Most of these diseases are fatal. The harmful effects of smoking become exponential for those who have diabetes. Research has proved that smoking regularly increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. While diabetes is bad enough, smoking increases the problems many times over as it causes more complications. In short, diabetes and smoking do not go hand-in-hand!

Why Is smoking bad for diabetics?

The food we eat gets converted to glucose in the body. The pancreas produces insulin, a hormone that is responsible for converting this glucose into energy. Diabetes is a metabolic disease that affects the glucose levels in the blood. Due to various environmental and genetic factors, either the body becomes resistant to insulin or stops producing it in enough quantities. So, while there is more than enough glucose coursing through the body, it doesn’t reach the cells to be utilized for biological processes.Those who smoke are 40% more likely to develop diabetes. Those who already have diabetes are vulnerable to have more complications than non-smoking diabetics. Also, they have more trouble controlling their disease. Here is how smoking affects people with diabetes.

1. Smoking Increases Blood Glucose Levels

People with diabetes already deal with fluctuating blood glucose levels. Smoking makes it harder because nicotine is responsible for increasing resistance to insulin. The decreased sensitivity leads to a steep rise in blood sugar and this causes more organ damage in those with diabetes.

2. Smoking Affects Blood Vessels

Those who smoke and have diabetes are twice, sometimes even four times depending on their smoking habits, as likely to develop cardiovascular problems. Smoking constricts the blood vessels throughout the body. This leads to reduced blood flow to the heart and the brain leading to heart attacks and stroke. The reduced blood flow also affects the legs, increasing their chances of ulcers and sores, infections and even amputation. You must realize that the deadly combination of diabetes and smoking is curbing your chance at a healthier and happier life.Read More: Understanding the Relationship between Diabetes & Heart Disease

3. Smoking Causes Respiratory Problems

Smoking affects the lungs negatively. Those who puff away are at an increased risk of suffering from chronic bronchitis, emphysema and other breathing problems. For people with diabetes, the problem increases as the organs are already under stress due to the high glucose levels in the blood. Most diabetics are more susceptible, three times more, to developing pneumonia than non–smoking people with diabetes. Therefore, Diabetes and smoking is a big NO.

4. Smoking Causes Vision Problems

High sugar levels affect the nerves and cause severe damage. Therefore, in most cases, people with diabetes suffer vision problems. Smoking regularly accelerates the process of nerve damage in the body and can cause vision problems like retinopathy much quicker in people with diabetes. It also increases the odds of developing cataracts and glaucoma. Other major effects on the eyes due to diabetes are  Diabetic Retinopathy, Diabetic Macular Edema, etc.

5. Smoking Causes Peripheral Neuropathy

Since smoking affects the nerves negatively and diabetes is already responsible for causing severe nerve damage, combining the two can be fatal. Smokers who suffer from diabetes are at risk of developing peripheral neuropathy much earlier than non-smoking diabetics. Peripheral neuropathy causes numbness, tingling, pain and coordination problems in the arms and legs.Read More: 7 Health Hazards of Smoking

Why diabetics find it harder to quit smoking?

There are two primary reasons why those with diabetes find it more onerous to quit smoking.
  1. Most diabetics fear the weight gain that is associated with quitting smoking. However, the weight gain is negligible and is a much better side effect than all the negative issues that smoking causes.
  2. People with diabetes are also at a higher risk of developing depression. By quitting smoking, they may feel the lows to a higher degree than those who do not have diabetes. The increased stress levels stop the process of quitting and increase the consumption of tobacco.

What can you do?

To reduce the risks associated with smoking, there are a lot of things that patients with diabetes can do. Quitting smoking will improve your health and how you look and feel about yourself. Here are some tips to help you quit smoking.
  1. Set a date to quit. Decide on a date that you will stop smoking and do not waver.
  2. Some people prefer to quit suddenly while others may respond better to a more gradual quitting process. Decide what works best for you and work towards that goal.
  3. Share your quitting plans with friends and family. They will help you stay on the path should you find it hard to stay motivated. Telling your doctor may also bring in a factor of responsibility and accountability.
  4. Increase your inconvenience. Stowaway the ashtrays. Don’t keep cigarettes in the house and throw away the lighters. If you must head to the stores to purchase your cigarettes, chances are you will let go of the idea.
  5. Don’t act on the craving. A craving for a cigarette doesn’t last for long. Practice deep breathing or meditation or go for a bath every time you want to smoke.
  6. Avoid places and people that encourage smoking. Instead, hang out in places where smoking is not allowed. Libraries, museums, theatre and homes of friends are good places to encourage your quitting process.
  7. Find friends who are on a quitting journey themselves. This will encourage you and keep you motivated.
  8. Keep healthy items like nuts and fruits around and eat them every time you feel like smoking. Or drink a glass of water. Most people experience an improved sense of taste after they quit smoking leading them to overeat which causes the dreaded weight gain. Keep low-calorie, healthy food options to keep off the kilos.
  9. Every time you feel like smoking, exercise. You could go for a walk, a jog, do yoga or dance instead as a healthier alternative to smoking. Exercising also reduces stress levels.
  10. Try nicotine replacement therapy by using nicotine gum or patches. But these increase the blood sugar levels so be careful and gradually reduce your dependence on them too.
  11. Engage in activities that make you happy. Most people forget to smoke when they are enjoying life.
  12. Caffeine makes cigarettes taste better so until you are sure you won’t relapse, stay away from coffee and caffeinated drinks. Also, reduce your alcohol intake as it increases the urge to smoke.

Conclusion

If you suffer from diabetes and smoke, you must realize that you are increasing your risks for many diseases. There are innumerable benefits to quitting smoking. Not only will it help you deal better with diabetes but also improve your moods and looks.Read  More: 5 Effective to Control DiabetesDisclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.Reference

  1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23275932/#:~:text=Smoking%20increases%20the%20risk%20of,vascular%20complications%20of%20diabetes%20mellitus.
  2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12704597/
  3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6813988/
  4. https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/26/suppl_1/s89/21751/Smoking-and-Diabetes
4