What Is The Impact Of Smoking And Excessive Alcohol Consumption On Non-Communicable Diseases? Know From An Expert

The rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and chronic respiratory disorders in India is closely tied to preventable lifestyle habits—most notably smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. These two behaviors alone are among the biggest contributors to NCD-related morbidity and mortality, yet they remain highly modifiable through awareness and public health interventions. In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Vikas Mittal, Director - Pulmonologist at CK Birla Hospital in Delhi, spoke about What Is The Impact Of Smoking And Excessive Alcohol Consumption On Non-Communicable Diseases?

According to Dr. Vikas Mittal, tobacco smoke contains over 7,000 chemicals, many of which are toxic and carcinogenic. Smoking is directly associated with the development of lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cardiovascular diseases. Beyond the smoker, passive or secondhand smoke poses serious health risks to non-smokers, including children and the elderly, increasing their chances of developing NCDs. Despite widespread awareness, tobacco use continues to be a leading cause of preventable death in India.

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Excessive alcohol consumption, while often underestimated, silently harms vital organs over time. It significantly raises the risk of liver cirrhosis, several cancers—especially those of the oral cavity, esophagus, and liver—as well as high blood pressure, stroke, and mental health conditions. When smoking and alcohol use co-occur, the risk of developing severe and early-onset NCDs multiplies, creating a compounded health hazard, added Dr. Vikas.

Disturbingly, lifestyle-related diseases are now emerging among younger age groups, particularly individuals in their 30s and 40s—ages previously considered low-risk for such conditions. This shift not only impacts personal health and quality of life but also brings substantial economic consequences, including reduced workforce productivity and escalating healthcare expenses.

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Finally, Dr. Vikas Mittal, Director - Pulmonologist at CK Birla Hospital in Delhi, emphasized that addressing smoking and excessive alcohol use through education, policy enforcement, and access to cessation support is essential to curbing the NCD epidemic. By targeting these key risk factors, India can make meaningful progress in improving public health outcomes and reducing the long-term burden of chronic diseases.