India, Nov. 1 -- Our lungs are among the most vital organs, silently working to keep us alive. But exposure to tobacco smoke, air pollution, and harmful occupational substances can cause serious, sometimes irreversible damage. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Gurmeet Singh Chabbra, Director, Pulmonology, Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital, Faridabad, explains how these factors harm our lungs and what steps can help reverse or reduce the damage. (Also read: Orthopaedic surgeon shares 8 everyday habits that put your lungs, heart and other organs at risk: 'Loud music.' )

"At birth, our lungs are pink and healthy," says Dr Chabbra. "However, prolonged exposure to cigarette smoke and air pollutants deposits toxins in the lungs, leading t...