Lung Cancer is the 2nd Most Common Cancer in India: Dr. Jatin Sarin

By Tricitynews

Chandigarh 30^th May:- World No tobacco day is celebrated on 31^st May all over the world. Dr. Jatin Sarin, noted medical oncologist of tricity says this day is to promote awareness regarding harmful effects of consumption of any form of tobacco. India is the third largest tobacco user across the world. As per the WHO, tobacco kills more than 1 million people in India each year. Currently there are 266 million tobacco users in India and a substantial number of second hand smokers. This was stated by Dr. Jatin Sarin during a Awareness event held at Chandigarh.

Dr. Jatin Sarin Medical Oncologist, said that some interesting facts stating environmental load due to cigarette smoking, were brought forward by a study conducted by Imperial College, London. The smoke from the world’s cigarettes represents 0.2% of global greenhouse gas emission. Cigarette butt waste represents 845000 tons of waste produced every year, the same as 3,755 times weight of statue of Liberty.

He further said that globally, each year, the tobacco industry consumes as much energy as the manufacture of 2 million cars. In 2015, it is estimated to have emitted some 8.76 million tons of CO2, the same as 3 million transatlantic flights. All forms of tobacco like cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco are dangerous. Cardiovascular diseases, oral cancers, lung cancers, kidney diseases, pancreatic diseases are commonly seen in tobacco users. Tobacco use affects almost every major organ and system in the body causing a great deal of morbidity and untimely death. More than 4,000 different types of chemicals have been found in tobacco and tobacco smoke. Over 60 of these chemicals have been classified as cancer causing agents by International Agency on Research in Cancer.

Dr. Jatin Sarin added that every time a person smokes a cigarette, the toxic chemicals pass into the lung and further into different organs of the body via the blood. Organs like the mouth, throat, larynx, brain, oesophagus, lungs, urinary bladder, kidney and breast are affected by smoking tobacco. Tobacco also causes many other disorders such as heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, stroke, blindness etc. Smoking tobacco is a major risk factor for lung cancer; almost 85% patients diagnosed with Lung cancer have a history of smoking. Cancer develops when there is an uncontrolled multiplication of the cells of the body. The harmful chemicals of the tobacco cause these cells to grow uncontrollably and may lead to cancer. Lung cancer is the 2nd most common cancer in India and first most common cause of death due to cancer.

Stopping smoking is associated with the following health benefits.  ·Lowered risk for lung cancer and many other types of cancer.

· Reduced risk for heart disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease (narrowing of the blood vessels outside your heart). 

· Reduced respiratory symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

· Reduced risk of developing some lung diseases such as COPD.

· Reduced risk for infertility in women of childbearing age.

Though there is increased knowledge of tobacco consumption and its harmful effects, the incidence of lung cancer and other tobacco related issues is high. People should understand the effects of active and passive smoking and quit tobacco consumption for a healthier and longer life.