Breathe Better: Top 5 Tips for Healthy Lungs on World Lung Cancer Day

Each year, August 1st is dedicated to the observance of World Lung Cancer Day. Read on to learn more about why today matters, and 5 ways to maintain your lung health.

What is World Lung Cancer Day?

The goal of World Lung Cancer Day is to raise awareness of lung cancer issues and help encourage people to take better care of their lungs. World Lung Cancer Day is a day for people around the world to acknowledge the prevalence of lung cancer, the causes of poor lung health, and how to improve their own lung health with lifestyle changes.  

Air pollution is a growing concern in New York City, and it poses a significant threat to one's respiratory health. The fine particulate matter and harmful pollutants in the air can lead to respiratory issues, worsen pre-existing conditions, and even contribute to the development of lung cancer. It's essential to stay informed about the air quality in your area and take necessary precautions. Our lungs are precious, and we want to celebrate their resilience while sharing some practical tips to safeguard our lung health, especially amidst the recent increase in air pollution along the East Coast. Here are 5 ways to maintain and improve your lung health.

5 Ways to Improve Your Lung Health

1. Quit Smoking - for Good! 

If you're a smoker, today is the day to commit to quitting. Smoking is one of the leading causes of lung cancer and a host of other respiratory illnesses. Seek support from friends, family, or make an appointment with Apicha Community Health Center. to access our Substance Abuse Harm Reduction Services. Remember, it's never too late to quit, and your lungs will thank you for it! 

2. Exercise Regularly: 

Physical activity is not only beneficial for your overall health but also for your lung health. Regular exercise helps to improve your lung capacity and strengthens your respiratory muscles. Consider engaging in activities like swimming, jogging, or aerobics to boost your lung function and keep them healthy. 

3. Practice Deep Breathing Exercises: 

Incorporate deep breathing exercises into your daily routine. Breathing exercises not only help relax your mind but can also help to expand your lung capacity and improve ventilation. One simple exercise that you can do anywhere is deep belly breathing. You can do this exercise by inhaling slowly through your nose, feeling your belly rise, and exhaling gently through your mouth 10 to 15 times in a row. 

4. Filter Indoor Air: 

As outdoor air quality fluctuates, maintaining good indoor air quality is crucial. To combat the hazards of the New York City air, and any unforeseen events, consider using air purifiers or plants with air-purifying properties to filter the air indoors. Vacuum and dust regularly, especially in high-traffic areas, and wash linens on a regular basis to keep pollutants and other allergens indoors to a minimum. Additionally, try to ensure proper ventilation in your living spaces by opening windows and doors, and avoid using products that emit harmful chemicals, like strong cleaning products. 

5. Use Protective Gear: 

The use of face masks predates the pandemic in 2020 by a long shot. Each kind of mask serves a different purpose, like filtering to keep particles away from you versus filtering to keep your particles away from others and vice versa. So, don’t put away your face masks for the pandemic just yet, you can still use them on days when the air quality is particularly poor.

You can make a positive impact on your health by making conscious choices, despite the increase in air pollution across the city. Now you have the knowledge to take these 5 proactive steps to safeguard your lung health. At Apicha Community Health Center, we aim to make health information accessible and stand with you on your journey toward improved lung health. So, breathe easy, stay informed, and continue to prioritize your well-being. Remember, small changes in our daily habits can make a significant difference. Here's to a healthier and happier you! Happy World Lung Cancer Day!