$Unique_ID{BRK00584}
$Pretitle{Respiratory System}
$Title{Will a Period of not Smoking Give one Pristine New Lungs?}
$Subject{lungs smoking}
$Volume{H-5, H-23}
$Log{
The Effects of Smoking-I*0007301.scf
The Effects of Smoking-II*0007302.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Will a Period of not Smoking Give one Pristine New Lungs?


------------------------------------------------------------------------------

QUESTION:  Assuming that all the cells in one's body die and are replaced
sooner or later, can one say that after thirty years of smoking, a five to
seven year period of not smoking will give one pristine new lungs?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ANSWER:  An interesting question, but unfortunately, based upon a wrong
assumption.  It is true that we replace all our red cells every 100 days, and
that many other body cells die and are replaced in the normal process of
living, but some of the damage inflicted on lungs by thirty years of smoking
can never be repaired.  Chronic bronchitis, emphysema and chronic airways
obstructive disease are all possible outcomes of long term cigarette smoking.
Smoke has an adverse effect on lung defenses and provokes a low grade
inflammation which in turn, leads to the changes in lung anatomy and function.
But I don't want to take a completely negative approach to your question.  It
is true that if lung function is measured by certain tests in smoking
individuals, and then compared to the results of the same test after a period
of smoking abstinence, a notable improvement can be measured.  Many of the
symptoms of coughing and shortness of breath also improve considerably, as the
lung cleanses itself and revitalizes after the constant irritation of smoking
is removed.  However if the seeds of cancer have been sown during your thirty
year experience with tobacco, stopping the habit now can not eradicate the
tumor.  It is nice to think of our body as being constantly renewed and
repaired, but it is mortal, and with time, begins to show the signs of wear
and tear that we inflict upon it.  Good health habits allow the body function
at its best, and offer the best hope for a long life.
ÿ
----------------

The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
