Health News

Smoking Tied to Large Number of Deaths in Asia
As smoking has begun to decline in some parts of the world, including the US, it is still increasing in other regions. A new study explored tobacco use in Asia.
Single Gene Doubled Risk of Lung Cancer
After decades of public health initiatives, it’s no secret that smoking is bad for your health and can ultimately cause lung cancer.
Fifty Years Later, Work Remains to Curb Smoking
Fifty years ago, the US Surgeon General first warned of the dangerous effects of smoking. On the anniversary of that announcement, the current Surgeon General has released new data.
It's Not Too Late to Quit Smoking After Cancer Diagnosis
It's never too late to quit smoking, even after a cancer diagnosis, according to recent research.
When Babies Are Forced to Smoke
Some babies may be more likely than others to develop respiratory infections. This is especially true of babies prone to allergies. Secondhand smoke can make the situation worse.
Hookah Smoking Isn't A Safe Alternative
Hookah smoking may seem like a less harmful alternative to cigarettes. But the charcoal brick heating the hookah’s tobacco can expose a person to high levels of harmful chemicals.
Quitting Smoking After Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos is a known cancer-causing agent. It was banned in the United States in the 1970s, but can still be found in old insulation and other building materials. People who have been exposed to asbestos are at higher risk of respiratory diseases, including lung cancer.
Blood Test May Predict Lung Cancer Risk
Finding lung cancer at its earliest stages, when there is still the chance of a cure, is a problem. Regular CT scans can detect such cancers in older smokers who’ve smoked the equivalent of a pack a day for 30 years.
Spotting Need for Lung Cancer Screening
Findings of the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) showed that screening long-term smokers of certain ages could reduce lung cancer deaths by 20 percent. Recommendations have been developed based on the results of this trial.
50-Year Trends in Smoking Related Deaths
Too many people have died from smoking-related illnesses in the past 50 years. But there is good news: quitting smoking starts the healing process and immediately begins to reduce the risks of smoking-related disease.