Everyday many people take for granted our ability to breathe, unless you are one of the 35 million Americans are living with chronic lung diseases such as asthma, emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Lung disease is the number three cause of death in America, responsible for one in seven deaths.
Healthy Lung Month, observed in October, is sponsored by the American Lung Association and is designed to increase the awareness of issues pertaining to the maintenance of healthy lungs. It is never too late to take action for good lung health. The number one healthiest choice to make for your lungs is to not smoke. According to the National Cancer Institute, the primary cause of lung cancer is tobacco smoke.
Quitting smoking has immediate as well as long-term health benefits for you and your loved ones. Also, avoid smoky bars and smoking areas in restaurants. It may not seem fair but the secondhand smoke you breathe in from these sources can damage your lungs just as much as the smoke from your own cigarette.
There are many things you can do beyond quitting smoking to get your lungs in shape, protecting them from damage and disease.
Exercising regularly is very important. Keep your heart and lungs in good shape by doing the type of exercises that make your heart beat faster like climbing the stairs, riding a bike or walking briskly.
Make sure to also get at least seven servings of fruits and vegetables a day. Foods with high amounts of antioxidants, including vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium and beta-carotene, all improve lung function.
Healthy Lung Month is a great time to remind you that not everyone has healthy lungs.
Keep your lungs healthy by contacting Marion Regional Healthcare System to schedule a checkup and ask your physician for more information on good lung health. If you are smoker and are ready to quit contact our Education Department at 431-2080 to register for a smoking cessation class.
Vital Stats is a weekly health column provided by the doctors and staff of Marion Regional Healthcare System. For information, call (843) 431-2000.
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