Lungs are important pair of organs in the body that we need in order to breathe. They also help keep the other organs function properly. Essentially, every time we breathe in, the lungs take in oxygen and pass it along the bloodstream, which brings it to the body’s cells. In return, the lungs pick up and dispose carbon dioxide out of the body and this process happens every time we breathe. Indeed, lungs are very essential in our lives. Hence, yearly every month of November, Lung Cancer Awareness Month is observed worldwide to give emphasis to the importance of our lungs and the ill effects (e.g. lung cancer) when these organs are not properly taken cared of.
Unfortunately, due to the existing pollutions, our environment does not always help keep our lungs healthy. There are many risk factors that contribute to lung-related health conditions. One of these is lung cancer which is the leading cause of cancer deaths to both men and women, making up almost 25% of all cancer deaths according to World Health Organization (WHO). Keeping the lungs healthy is a very essential aspect to maintain a healthy life. However, this has been challenged by harmful things such as tobacco smoke (especially second-hand smoking), household carcinogens, outdoor air pollution and allergens that we don’t even realize we’re breathing in. Sometimes they can be avoided, other times we can’t. Nevertheless, it is important to know what we can do to protect our lungs.
Here are some tips to keep our lungs healthy:
Avoid Indoor and Outdoor Toxins - Do your best to avoid second hand smoke and other harmful toxins in the air. Make sure your indoor air quality monitors (if you have one) are working properly, and if you suspect any problems, have it checked by a technician.
Exercise to Keep Lungs Strong – Aerobic or cardiovascular exercises on a regular basis can help improve your lung function. It increases your body’s ability to use oxygen, and helps remove carbon dioxide more effectively. Exercise doesn’t need to be lengthy, 30 minutes to an hour of walking or jogging a few times a week can be a big help in your lung health.
Deep Clean with Natural Products – Most cleaning products contain many hidden toxins that can be extremely dangerous for your lungs and even in your health and for your family. Choose natural products for cleaning your home as these are safer to use.
See your Doctor for Regular Check Ups - It’s always good to make regular visit to your doctor for an annual check-up. However, if you suspect something might be wrong, schedule an appointment to have it checked out right away!
Our body has a natural defense system designed to protect the lungs, that sometimes we take our lungs for granted. However, this natural defense system of the body is not enough to protect the lungs fully from all its damaging enemies. Hence, prioritizing the lung health and following these tips will surely help us reduce our risk on developing lung cancer and other lung-related health conditions.
Have a healthy breathing!
NO I Angelica O. Pajulas
References:
1. World Health Organization https://www.who.int/cancer/PRGlobocanFinal.pdf
2. Wego health https://www.wegohealth.com/2016/10/24/the-importance-of-lung-health/
