Scientists have issued a warning to smokers who are dealing with addiction issues or trying to kick the habit. They have warned that cigarettes, vape pens, and patches can cause damage not only to the lungs but can also spread to the brain.
Harmful Effects of Nicotine
markusspiske/Unsplash: Nicotine in cigarettes propagate the cancer cells
A study has found that smokers are more likely to develop lung cancer as compared to non-smokers. It was also found that around 40% of the lung cancer morph into metastasis, and this number can be significantly higher in those with the habit.
The culprit was found to be nicotine, as it is addictive and can cause the cancer cells to spread. Although the substance has been ruled as carcinogenic, which means that on its own, it does not have the potential to cause cancer.
Brain cancer can cause the subsequent life expectancy of a human to be reduced to a meager six months.
281 lung cancer patients were analyzed; it was found that brain cancer was more common among smokers. After more research was conducted to find the root cause of this relationship, the results seem to point towards the presence of M2 microglia. These cells create and release chemicals in the body that induces the production of cancer cells.
In yet another study conducted by the Wake Forest University, similar findings were discovered in mice that nicotine encourages microglia development.
Many smokers, who are trying to ditch smoking, resort to nicotine patches, e-cigarettes, or gum, but that might have with its long-term effects on brain metastasis advancement.
How to Quit Smoking
findracadabra/Unsplash: Natural herbs can help in getting rid of the addiction
When the most popular methods to quit the habit have been thrown out the window, the next question arises what can be done?
Scientists suggest a natural medicinal herb called Feverfew that has shown excellent results in stopping the effects of nicotine in mice. Feverfew has been used to treat inflammation and headaches for years and is said to be safe to use. Researchers are hopeful that parthenolide can also provide answers. Still, the study is underway, and for any definitive results, we will have to wait.
arunanoop/Unsplash: Going cold turkey is the most effective method to quit
Another natural way is to quit cold turkey and keep your mind occupied and stress-free. The destructive habit is usually developed out of stress. If you are trying to quit, being anxious will not help your cause. Also, leaning on friends and family for support can go a long way to build mental endurance.
Journal of Experimental Medicine published the newfound research that states that smoking has terrifying mental and physical effects. Ways to drop this habit should be actively pursued.
