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How to Decrease Your Chances of Lung Disease

The devastating impact of Covid-19 has shown the world the importance of keeping your lungs healthy. Respiratory diseases are no joke and can put your life at risk if you do not take the proper steps to prevent them. Lung cancer alone kills 1.6 million people every year, which is not to mention all those impacted by other serious diseases like bronchitis or tuberculosis. Although it can be impossible to totally avoid certain diseases like lung cancer, there are certain steps you can take to decrease your risk. Here are a few examples. 


Quit Smoking

The number one activity that puts your lungs at risk that is entirely preventable is smoking. Your risk of cancer increases dramatically the longer you smoke and the number of cigarettes you smoke a day. The sooner you quit, the more you reduce that risk. Chronic obtrusive pulmonary disease (COPD) is another serious respiratory illness caused by smoking and it’s the third most deadly disease in American based on how many deaths it causes each year. According to the CDC 8 out of 10 cases of COPD are caused by smoking – which shows how much the activity can put you at risk. If you are a smoker, now is the time to quit. Smokers are more at risk of experiencing complications if they catch COVID-19. That on top of all the other health risks it poses makes the activity increasingly dangerous in today’s world. 


Exercise Regularly 

Exercise is a natural defense against any disease. It won’t prevent viruses and bacteria from getting into your body, but it will ensure that your immune system and other organs healthy enough to fight off any intruding organisms. Cardio is especially effective for lung functioning and you should consider jogging, walking, or playing a sport that involves running if you feel you may be at risk for catching lung disease. 

Test Your Home for Radon or Asbestos

There are potentially life-threatening substances that can be found in the average American home, such as radon and asbestos. Radon is a radioactive gas that seeps out of the earth and into households through gaps in the foundation. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer and kills about 20,000 people per year. Asbestos is a mineral that was used in building many popular building materials up until the 1970s. Asbestos has been proven to cause mesothelioma, a deadly form of lung cancer that is often underdiagnosed. More information on mesothelioma treatment and prevention is available through the Mesothelioma Cancer Network.

If you believe that your home may be exposed to either of these deadly substances, have it screened immediately. You can never be too safe when it comes to the health and safety of your family. These substances can be easily dealt with if you act fast – but if you leave it alone too long, there may be deadly consequences.

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