Kick the butt!

HYDERABAD: Smoking harms every organ of the body and the heart is no different. Infact it increases the risk of cardio-vascular disease by two to four times and poses a major health risk to the smoker. Globally more deaths are caused each year by tobacco use than by all deaths from HIV, illegal drug use, alcohol use, motor vehicle injuries, suicides, and murders combined. With over one third of the Indian population using tobacco in one form of the other there is an immediate need for education and awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco.World Heart day, which was on September 29,  is observed across the word to help spread awareness on the preventive measures that can be taken to reduce the risk factors associated with cardio-vascular disease. Statistics show heart problems along with strokes are the leading cause of death in the world; however 80% of premature deaths due to these conditions can be avoided if the main risk factors including smoking are controlled. Carbon Mono-oxide and the other carcinogens in tobacco smoke damage the endothelium or the inner lining of the arteries. In a healthy blood vessel the endothelium constricts and dilates with blood flow. Smoking damages this delicate body part and makes arteries prone to spasms and deposits of diffuse plaque that diminish its ability to dilate properly.Cigarette smoking results in the narrowing of blood vessels (arteries) and therefore reduced  circulation. This puts smokers at a risk of developing peripheral vascular disease which means the large arteries in the arms and legs get obstructed and this can cause a range of problems from pain to tissue loss or gangrene. Smoking may also causes abdominal aortic aneurysm which involves a swelling or weakening of the main artery of the body, the aorta, where it runs through the abdomen.Dr Vijai Kumar Ratnavelu,consultant pulmonologist, director and professor, Pulmonary Medicine and Critical Care, Yashoda Super Specialty Hospital