Leonard Nimoy Wants Fan To Quit Smoking Following Lung Disease Diagnosis

Leonard Nimoy is urging fans to quit smoking after his recent lung disease diagnosis.

Thirty years after the Star Trek star decided to kick cigarettes to the curb, the actor discovered he was suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Since he doesn’t want his fans to end up with COPD, Nimoy asked kindly asked them to give up cigarettes.

“I quit smoking 30 yrs ago. Not soon enough. I have COPD. Grandpa says, quit now! I’m doing okay. Just can’t walk distances. Love my life, family, friends, and followers,” he explained during a series of posts on Twitter.

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

In addition to telling his fans to quit smoking, he issued a message that many people will never tire of hearing or reading.

“Live long and prosper,” he wrote.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, COPD can cause coughing as well as “wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and other symptoms.” Even if you quit smoking, there’s still a chance you could develop the disease.

The institute’s website explains:

“COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a progressive disease that makes it hard to breathe. Progressive means the disease gets worse over time. Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of COPD. Most people who have COPD smoke or used to smoke. Long-term exposure to other lung irritants — such as air pollution, chemical fumes, or dust — also may contribute to COPD.”

Leonard Nimoy portrayed Spock on the original Star Trek, a television series which ran from 1966 until 1969. He also reprised the role in several motion pictures, including director J.J. Abrams’ 2009 reboot.

Although the actor certainly has a vested interest in the character, Nimoy said he approved of the alternate timeline J.J. Abrams and crew put together for the reboot and its sequel Star Trek Into Darkness. Nimoy said he thoroughly enjoyed the follow-up.

“I take it all in stride. I don’t feel that I have any personal investment in that. I am definitely invested in what happens to the future of the Spock character, how it’s played and how it’s portrayed. I think a very good job is being done with that and I’m very proud of that,” the actor explained.

He continued, “I’m very happy to be connected with that and Zachary and I are very good friends. I admire him. I think he does wonderful work. As far as the timeline and the storyline are concerned, I do not have a big investment in that.”

What do you think about Leonard Nimoy urging his fans to quit smoking?