Smoking is a well-known unhealthy habit that can trigger the development of various diseases. It not only affects active smokers but also has an impact on people who are frequently exposed to cigarette smoke, also known as passive smokers.

Smoking is one of the main causes of lung cancer. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), smokers have a 15-30 times higher risk of getting lung cancer or dying from it compared to non-smokers.

When inhaling cigarette smoke, which is full of carcinogenic substances, changes in lung tissue occur immediately. Cigarette smoke contains more than 7,000 toxic chemicals, around 70 of which are classified as carcinogenic or cancer-causing agents. This triggers damage to body cells and overall immune system disturbance.

Around 80-85% of lung cancer cases are non-small cell type, which is more aggressive, and 95% of small cell lung cancer patients have a history of smoking.

Therefore, if you smoke, try to quit gradually. If you live or work with smokers, ask them to quit smoking or at least smoke outside. Avoid areas where people smoke and choose smoke-free areas.

Author: Dr. Nety Kurniati (Manager of the Laboratory Clinic at PRAMITA Clinic, Jl. Matraman Raya No. 24, Jakarta)