India, April 26 -- The lungs never truly rest - they work 24x7, taking about 20,000 breaths a day throughout life to deliver oxygen and remove CO2. This oxygen fuels every cell in the body. When the lungs function well, everything else becomes easier. Healthy lungs reduce strain on other organs and lower the risk of high blood pressure, heart attack and stroke. Good lung function also helps fight infections, promotes proper rest, improves sleep and supports a better mood. It is therefore essential to keep the lungs healthy and functional. In addition to these lifestyle habits, preventive measures such as regular vaccination, as advised by a doctor, are important to guard against infections. The bottom line is that most lung damage is preventable. Small daily choices - clean air, no smoking, exercise and vaccination - can add up to decades of easier breathing. The author of this article is an MBBS, DNB, DM Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine (PGI Chandigarh), FCCP; consultant pulmonologist, Jindal Clinics, Centre for Interventional Pulmonology and Sleep Medicine, SCO 21, Sector 20-D, Chandigarh, who can be contacted at 958-246-9429...