September 25 is World Lung Day—a reminder to care for your lungs. One of the best things you can do is quit smoking, including e-cigarettes and vaping.
Smoking damages your lungs and raises the risk of serious diseases like COPD, lung cancer, and infections. The longer you smoke, the greater the risk. But it is never too late to quit. Stopping now can help you breathe better and live longer.
Even after quitting, the risk for lung cancer remains. That is why lung cancer screening is important. A low dose CT scan can detect cancer early, when it is easier to treat.
Annual screening is recommended for people who:
- Have a 20 pack-year or more smoking history, and
- Smoke now or have quit within the past 15 years, and
- Are between 50 and 80 years old.
Quitting is not easy, but you do not have to do it alone. Free resources are available to support you. Visit American Lung Cancer Association’s website.
Every smoke-free day is a win for your health. Whether it’s your first try or your fifth, don’t give up. And if you are a current or former smoker, talk to your doctor about lung cancer screening.
Reference: cdc.org, lung.org.
Disclaimer: This is a general guideline. Please consult with a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.