“I quit smoking 30 yrs ago. Not soon enough. I have COPD.”

The sad news comes from beloved actor Leonard Niimoy, who announced his diagnosis via Twitter.

Fans of the newly diagnosed actor were concerned when video footagemade its way around the internet that showing being rolled out of an airport in a wheelchair while wearing an oxygen mask.

The 82-year-old actor has since responded to the outpouring of concern.

“I’m doing OK. Just can’t walk distances. Love my life, family, friends and followers.”

COPD is the abbreviation for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which is a progressive disease that makes it harder and harder to breathe over time.

Symptoms of COPD include coughing that produces large amounts of mucus, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

I quit smoking 30 yrs ago. Not soon enough. I have COPD. Grandpa says, quit now!! LLAP

— Leonard Nimoy (@TheRealNimoy) January 30, 2014

Smokers, please understand. If you quit after you're diagnosed with lung damage it's too late. Grandpa says learn my lesson. Quit now. LLAP.

— Leonard Nimoy (@TheRealNimoy) February 6, 2014

I'm doing OK. Just can't walk distances. Love my life,family, friends and followers. LLAP

— Leonard Nimoy (@TheRealNimoy) February 6, 2014

The leading cause of COPD is smoking. The damage caused from the disease is irreversible, as Nimoy unfortunately learned. It’s startling to think that even if one wises up and breaks a smoking habit that there are long-term effects that can impact you decades later. Perhaps this is one of the strongest reasons available as to why someone aim to should quit smoking immediately.

Warns Nimoy, “Smokers, please understand. If you quit after you’re diagnosed with lung damage it’s too late. Grandpa says learn my lesson. Quit now.”

Even though COPD is a permanent condition, it is possible to alleviate symptoms and slow damage. One of the first ways to do so is of course to stop smoking. There is also the possibility that surgery and antibiotics can help. Oxygen therapy is a highly recommended form of treatment for COPD and is said to prolong the life of sufferers. It’s also good to consider rehabilitation involving exercise and physical activity.

The “Fringe” star may be feeling the effects of the disease, but he remains active. Nimoy shared that he had finished taping his comments for the Star Trek Fest which is scheduled to air February 16th on EPIX. He shared via Twitter that he is still “living his life” and continues to encourage his followers and fans to “LLAP”: Live long and prosper.

Image via Wikimedia Commons