Overview of Lung Cancer and Smoking

Lung Cancer Statistics

• 1953: Lung cancer became the leading cause of cancer death in men.
• 1985: Became a leading cause of cancer death in women.
• 2020: Estimated 1.8 million deaths globally due to lung cancer.

Key Points on Smoking and Lung Health

• 90% of Lung Cancer Deaths: Attributable to smoking; thus, avoidable.
• Exploration in Anatomy Labs: Students learn about lung anatomy and the effects of smoking.
• Healthy vs. Smoker's Lungs:
  • Healthy lungs: Pinkish and elastic.
  • Smoker’s lungs: Blackened, less elastic, may contain cancer lesions.

Types of Smoking

• Cigarettes: Primary cause of lung cancer, accounting for 90% of cases.
• Secondhand Smoke: Increases risk, lesser intensity than direct smoking.
• Cigars/Pipes: Associated with increased risk but potentially lower than cigarettes.
• Marijuana: Risk is less clearly defined due to study limitations.
• Vaping: Long-term effects less known; possible risk increase, confounded by dual substance use.

Smoking Cessation Benefits

• Risk Reduction: Significant decrease in risk within five years of quitting.
• Former vs. Current Smokers: 80-90% risk reduction after quitting for over 15 years compared to current smokers.

Broader Health Impacts of Smoking

• Cardiovascular Disease: Responsible for over 10% of cardiovascular deaths.
• Infections: Heightened risk of flu, cold, pneumonia.
• Type 2 Diabetes: Impaired insulin sensitivity linked to nicotine.
• Bone Health: Increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
• Reproductive Health: Issues like premature menopause, infertility, erectile dysfunction.
• Oral Health: Increases risk of ulcers and periodontal disease.
• Vision: Higher risk of macular degeneration and cataracts.

Addressing Outliers in Smoking Perceptions

• Longevity Myths: Long-lived smokers are outliers, not the standard.
• Genetics and Luck: Some are genetically resilient, but quitting improves quality of life and health.

Conclusion

• Health Considerations: Smoking impacts various aspects of health beyond the lungs.
• Encouragement to Quit: Emphasis on overall health benefits and body’s healing potential when quitting smoking.