Insight

Miriam Mutebi: If you smoke, now is the perfect time to consider quitting

Miriam Mutebi/LinkedIn

Dec 31, 2024, 11:16

Miriam Mutebi: If you smoke, now is the perfect time to consider quitting

Miriam Mutebi, Assistant Professor in the Department of Surgery at the Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi, shared on LinkedIn:

“Now that we are very close to the end of the festive season, I think it’s a good time to remind ourselves that smoking is bad for our lungs–even if many of us will still keep up the habit.

Did you know it’s not doing your breasts any favors either?

Research shows a concerning link between smoking and an increased risk of breast cancer, particularly for younger women.

That’s right—lighting up can put your breast health at risk!

When you smoke, your body is exposed to a host of harmful chemicals that can alter the way your cells function.

For women, these changes can lead to a higher likelihood of developing breast cancer.

And if you think, ‘Oh, it won’t happen to me,’ let’s set the record straight: the side effects of smoking don’t discriminate. It affects women of all ages and backgrounds, so we need to be vigilant.

Here’s the good news: quitting smoking can significantly lower your risk and improve your overall health. Imagine breathing easier, feeling more energetic, and taking control of your body—what’s not to love?

If you smoke, now is the perfect time to consider quitting. A good New Year’s gift to your body.

There are numerous resources available, from support groups to nicotine replacement therapies, to help you kick the habit for good.

↳ Comment on vaping… in case you are wondering, those innocuous-looking sticks with fruity flavors are not as harmless as they look.

That’s right, vaping is STILL smoking and the same risk applies to your overall health

Your body deserves the best, and quitting is a powerful step towards living your healthiest life. Think of it this way: when you say goodbye to cigarettes, you’re not just clearing the air for your lungs; you’re also protecting your breasts and enhancing your overall well-being.

→ So, let’s make a pact, ladies—if you smoke, re-commit to your health today.

Repost if your breasts are worth it!”

Miriam Mutebi

Miriam Mutebi is a Breast Surgical Oncologist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Surgery at the Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya. She is the President of the African Organization for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC), and past president for Kenya Society of Hematology and Oncology (KESHO) and on the Board of Directors of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC).

She is the co-founder of the Pan African Women’s Association of Surgeons and is part of the Kenya Association of Women Surgeons. She is an avid supporter for the education and support for women, especially in surgery and she aims to provide mentorship for women in surgery and to improve women’s health and surgical care in Africa. She is currently pursuing a pilot’s license in order to extend breast care services to marginalized areas