D. Kawthar Eid
Coinciding with the celebration of the International Day of the Elderly, which coincides with October 1 of each year, we can only direct our awareness message to everyone, especially the elderly about the damage of tobacco products of all kinds and their impact on public health, as smoking is one of the most dangerous health habits that threaten human life in different stages of life, but its risk increases significantly in the elderly. With progress in the year, the ability of the body to tolerance of toxins and chemicals in tobacco decreases, making its effect double on their health and daily life.
The first thing that is affected by smoking in the elderly is the lung and the respiratory system, as their efficiency decreases naturally with age, so that smoking comes, so this deterioration speeds up, causing chronic diseases such as pulmonary obstruction, chronic cough, shortness of breath, and even increases the possibility of lung cancer.
It does not stop at the respiratory system. Smoking is directly related to the high rate of other chronic diseases such as heart disease, pressure and diabetes, as it raises blood pressure, weakens the blood vessels, which increases the possibility of heart and brain clots. It also negatively affects the control of sugar levels, which poses an additional threat to those who already suffer from these diseases.
Another important aspect is immunity. Smoking reduces the body’s ability to resist infection, which makes the smokers more vulnerable to frequent infections, especially pulmonary ones. It also exacerbates bone and muscle problems, as the absorption of calcium weakens, and increases osteoporosis, which increases the risk of fractures even with minor fall accidents.
Despite these risks, there remains a gospel of hope: quitting smoking at any age that is of great benefits, as breathing improves, the risk of chronic diseases decreases, and the quality of life increases. To achieve this, the competent and concerned authorities provide support programs and alternative drugs that help the elderly to take off, as well as community awareness campaigns targeting them and their families.
The most important message we send today to the elderly smokers is that quitting smoking is not a late decision, but rather an investment in their health and comfort. The family’s support and support is the cornerstone of the success of this step towards a longer and healthier life.
