Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 11: In view of the ever increasing incidence of cardiac ailments and lifestyle diseases due to nicotine like substances Head Department of Cardiology GMCH Jammu Dr Sushil Sharma held a day long cardiac awareness cum health Check up Camp at Village Bhera Panchayat Lower Gharota Block Bhalwal, here today for educating masses regarding the importance of primary prevention in decreasing mortality and morbidity associated with cardiovascular diseases.
While interacting with the people, Dr Sushil stated that in recent years, the global tobacco landscape has undergone a dramatic transformation. “Traditional cigarettes, long recognized as a major cause of cardiovascular disease, are increasingly being replaced or supplemented by newer nicotine delivery systems such as electronic cigarettes (vapes), heated tobacco products, nicotine pouches, and shisha. Aggressive marketing, sleek designs, appealing flavours, and the widespread belief that these alternatives are “safer than smoking” have driven their rapid adoption, particularly among adolescents and young adults,” Dr Sharma said.
He elaborated that Nicotine exerts powerful effects on the cardiovascular system through multiple mechanisms. It stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, leading to acute increases in heart rate, blood pressure, and myocardial oxygen demand. Chronic exposure promotes endothelial dysfunction, impairs nitric oxide mediated vasodilation, and accelerates arterial stiffness, all of which are key early steps in atherogenesis,” he added.
He maintained that second-hand exposure also deserves attention. “Aerosols from vapes and smoke from shisha are not benign; they impair endothelial function in bystanders and contribute to indoor air pollution. This challenges the notion that these products are socially harmless and reinforces the need for comprehensive smoke- and aerosol-free public spaces,” Dr Sharma said.
Others who were part of this camp include Dr Venkatesh Yellupu and Dr Adarsh Sharma. Paramedics and volunteers includes Rajkumar, Ranjeet Singh, Mohd Altaf, Gourav Sharma, Vikas kumar, Rajinder Singh, Gokul Jamwal, Mukesh Kumar and Nirvair Singh Bali.
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