Inc£nse Is as D∆ngerous as Smoking” – Doctor Links Habitual Use to Lung C∆ncer in Nigeria
Incense Is as Dangerous as Smoking” – Doctor Links Habitual Use to Lung Cancer in Nigeria
A medical doctor and health advocate, Dr. Jamila Aliyu Dikko, has issued a strong warning against the habitual use of incense, describing it as “very dangerous” due to the harmful chemicals released when burned.
In a viral video clip from her show, Dr. Dikko explained that most incense sticks are coated with synthetic perfumes containing phthalates, parabens, and other toxic substances. When burned, these produce smoke that damages lung cells over time — an effect she compared to smoking, or even worse because of the high concentration of smoke many users inhale directly.
“Smoke is never good for the lungs, whether it smells nice or smells bad,” she said. “Inhaling smoke into your lungs is definitely going to damage your cells. And if you do that over time, yep, it’s as good as smoking.”
Dr. Dikko revealed she has heard of at least three or four cases of women in Northern Nigeria who developed lung cancer without ever smoking. In one case, doctors initially insisted the patient must have smoked, only to discover she was a heavy, habitual incense user who “bathed” herself in the smoke several times a day.
She also highlighted benzene, a known carcinogen released in the smoke, as a major concern.
Dr. Dikko advised that if incense must be used, it should be burned in an empty room and the space aired out thoroughly before returning. She recommended using essential oil diffusers instead for a safer, healthier way to fragrance the home. Watch the video in the comment section.
