Quitting Smoking Improves Heart and Lung Function, Even After Years

Ziv Medical Center in Safed marked World Heart Day with an awareness event featuring four educational stations. The activities, overseen by Dr. Tatiana Levin, director of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Institute, included instruction on basic life support, risk factors, the importance of physical activity, and proper nutrition. Blood pressure checks and tests for upper and lower limb muscle strength were also conducted.

Dr. Majdi Halabi, head of the Cardiology Department at Ziv, emphasized that while advanced medical technology saves lives, patient awareness and behavior are crucial first steps. He noted that individuals often damage their heart health unknowingly, sometimes arriving at the emergency room too late. "Time is of the essence in cardiac emergencies, and any delay in treatment can worsen the damage," he stated.

Halabi highlighted that a significant portion of heart disease risk can be mitigated by lifestyle changes, early management of risk factors, and regular medical follow-ups, identifying smoking as a primary risk factor. "Even after many years of smoking, quitting is highly important; it reduces the risk of heart attacks and improves heart and respiratory functions. It's never too late to make a change," he asserted. High cholesterol, diabetes, and hypertension were also cited as major risk factors, with blood tests and continuous medical monitoring aiding early detection and treatment.

Lack of physical activity is another risk factor, with medical recommendations suggesting at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly. Diet also plays a critical role, as excessive salt, sugar, and processed foods increase risk, while a balanced diet protects the cardiovascular system. Halabi urged immediate medical attention for suspected heart attack symptoms, stating, "The sooner treatment is provided, the greater the chances of limiting damage to the heart muscle and saving lives."

The Ziv Medical Center's Cardiology Department offers comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services, including inpatient care, a cardiac intensive care unit, catheterization lab, non-invasive cardiology, electrophysiology, and cardiac rehabilitation. Advanced services include renal artery denervation for hypertension and pulmonary embolism treatment via catheterization. The center also utilizes advanced CT scanners for cardiac imaging. Halabi concluded, "The heart is the engine of our lives. Don't wait for a heart attack to start protecting your heart. Know your risk factors, get regular check-ups, and heed warning signs. Early detection, combined with Ziv's advanced capabilities, allows us to provide professional and cutting-edge treatment here in the north, close to home."