‘SRK can inspire others. Damage of smoking partly reversible’ – Times of India
Bollywood heartthrob Shah Rukh Khan announced on his 59th birthday that he had quit his 30-year smoking habit. Dr Samir Garde, director and head of pulmonology at Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, speaks to Lata Mishra about recovery
What message does SRK’s decision send?
As a highly influential celebrity, his decision can inspire his followers, especially youth, to kick the butt at a time when there’s an alarming rise in smoking among adolescents, especially teenaged girls.
What effects can 30 years of smoking have on the organs?
Those smoking for 30 years may have more long-lasting effects as it damages lung tissue and can lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD, various cancers and infertility in women. It weakens bones, increases risk of miscarriage, pregnancy complications, and can lead to kids born with asthma. As smoking thickens blood, it raises risk of clots in arteries going to the heart, brain and lower limbs, which can cause heart attacks and strokes.
How does the body react to quitting? Are breathing issues (like SRK’s) a common withdrawal symptom?
Blood pressure starts settling down as soon as one quits; heart rate settles within the first 48 hours to one week. Quitting reverses the hardening of arteries, improves skin texture and decreases bone porosity. It takes between five to 10 years for one’s entire body and physiology to match that of a non-smoker. SRK’s breathing trouble is essentially the body reminding itself that it wants nicotine. Some don’t report respiratory symptoms, while others complain of coughing, constipation or acidity. A test may find signs of obstructive lung disease. All these can often be managed with symptomatic treatment and inhaled medications. The body’s nicotine cravings are strongest for the first eight to 10 days after quitting and fades soon after.
What health improvements can someone in their 60s expect after quitting?
Quitting at 60 is a great first step, but a healthy lifestyle is key to restoring health. SRK is highly active, exercises regularly and maintains a balanced diet. For others, adopting regular exercise like yoga, cardio or weight training, along with a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and protein can help reverse damage even in 60s. After 40, lung function tends to decline by about 10 mL/kg (amout of air inhaled with a breath) per year. So, if a person quits in their 60s or 70s, aging has already caused some wear and tear. One should ideally quit before 30 to minimise long-term effects.
Do nicotine patches, gum help?
These may provide temporary relief from cravings, but don’t truly address the underlying issue. What you need is complete motivation, family support and the right kind of counselling from a doctor. If you don’t need a medicine to start smoking, you don’t need one to stop.
