Smoking cessation is essential for bone health
World No Tobacco Day 2023: Smoking can affect bone health at any age, but fracture risk may be especially high in seniors
Smoking can actually contribute to bone loss and increase the risk of fractures. Research has shown that smoking is associated with lower bone mineral density, which can make bones weaker and more prone to fractures. The harmful effects of smoking on bone health are believed to be due to several factors, including harmful substances in tobacco smoke, such as nicotine and carbon monoxide, which can disrupt the normal balance of bone remodelling.
While smoking can affect bone health at any age, the risk of fractures may be especially high in seniors. This is because aging naturally leads to a decrease in bone density and strength, and smoking can further accelerate this process. Additionally, older individuals may have a slower healing process, making it more difficult to recover from fractures.
“The ill effects of smoking are not just limited to the heart and lungs, it can also adversely affect the bones. Smoking steals key nutrients and directly affects bone mineral density (BMD), making bones brittle and prone to fractures. It is also known to have a negative effect on fracture healing and may lead to delayed union or non-union. Smoking causes the blood vessels to constrict and this affects blood flow, which prevents the bones from getting the required amount of nutrition and healing. With limited nutrition, the skeletal system cannot build strong bones,” says Dr Thirumalesh K Reddy, Senior and Lead Consultant – Joint Replacement & Arthroscopic Surgery, Aster CMI Hospital.
While it feels good and healthy to be on the lower end of the weight scale, smoking can lead to unhealthy weight loss that can lead to poor bone health, increasing the chances of osteoporosis and other bone-related diseases.
Considering the above details, smoking cessation is essential for bone health. “Along with not smoking, it is imperative to make lifestyle changes such as avoiding a sedentary lifestyle, exercising for at least 30 minutes a day, consuming a calcium-rich diet, and getting adequate amounts of vitamin D which is essential for calcium absorption. will enable help too,” says Dr Reddy.
Since the effects of smoking are reversible, to bring health markers and bone health back to normal, it is recommended to stop smoking and adopt a healthy lifestyle.
It’s worth noting that quitting smoking can have a positive effect on bone health. Studies have shown that people who quit smoking can experience improved bone density and a decreased risk of fractures over time. Therefore, it is important for seniors and individuals of all ages to make smoking cessation a priority to protect their bone health and overall well-being.
