Pervez Musharraf suffered from a rare condition called Amyloidosis. His family stated that an uninterrupted supply and administration of the experimental drug Daratumumab, needed alongside associated treatment for Amyloidosis, was not available in Pakistan.
This was a key reason cited by his family for his inability to return to Pakistan for treatment, and he remained in Dubai where he eventually passed away in February 2023.

The lungs are vital organs responsible for one of the most fundamental processes in our bodies: respiration, or breathing. They facilitate the critical exchange of gases that keeps us alive.
How the Lungs Work
* Inhalation: When you breathe in, your diaphragm (a dome-shaped muscle below your lungs) contracts and flattens, and the muscles between your ribs pull your rib cage up and out. This creates more space in your chest cavity, causing air pressure in your lungs to drop below the outside air pressure. As a result, air is drawn into your body through your nose or mouth.
* Air Pathway: The inhaled air travels down your windpipe (trachea), which then branches into two main airways called bronchi, one for each lung. These bronchi continue to divide into smaller and smaller tubes called bronchioles, much like the branches of a tree.
* Gas Exchange (Alveoli): At the end of the smallest bronchioles are tiny air sacs called alveoli. There are hundreds of millions of these in your lungs, and they are surrounded by a network of tiny blood vessels called capillaries. This is where the magic happens:
* Oxygen into Blood: Oxygen from the inhaled air in the alveoli passes across their very thin walls and into the capillaries, where it binds to a protein called hemoglobin in red blood cells.
* Carbon Dioxide out of Blood: At the same time, carbon dioxide, a waste product from your body’s cells, moves from the capillaries into the alveoli.
* Exhalation: Once the gas exchange is complete, your diaphragm and rib muscles relax. This reduces the space in your chest, increasing the pressure in your lungs and pushing the carbon dioxide-rich air out of your body. This entire process occurs continuously, often without conscious thought, ensuring a constant supply of oxygen to your body and removal of waste carbon dioxide.
How Lungs are Damaged by Cancer
Lung cancer develops when cells in the lungs undergo genetic changes (mutations) that cause them to grow and multiply uncontrollably, forming a mass called a tumor. This unchecked growth can severely damage the lungs and impair their function in several ways:
* Airway Obstruction: Tumors can grow within or around the airways (bronchi and bronchioles), narrowing or blocking them. This makes it difficult for air to reach or leave the alveoli, leading to shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing.
* Tissue Destruction: As the tumor grows, it invades and destroys healthy lung tissue, reducing the amount of functional lung available for gas exchange. This directly impacts the lung’s ability to take in oxygen and expel carbon dioxide.
* Fluid Accumulation: Lung cancer can cause fluid to build up in the pleural space (the area between the lungs and the chest wall), a condition known as pleural effusion. This fluid compresses the lungs, preventing them from fully expanding during inhalation and making breathing very difficult.
* Bleeding: Tumors can grow into blood vessels in the airways, leading to bleeding. This can manifest as coughing up blood (hemoptysis) and, in severe cases, can further compromise breathing.
* Inflammation and Infection: Cancerous growths can cause inflammation in the lungs, and obstructed airways can make a person more susceptible to infections like pneumonia or bronchitis.
* Spread (Metastasis): Lung cancer cells can break away from the primary tumor and spread through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to other parts of the body, including the other lung, lymph nodes, or distant organs. This further compromises overall health and body function.
* Pressure on Nearby Structures: Depending on its location, a lung tumor can press on nerves, blood vessels, or even the heart, leading to pain, swelling, or other complications. For instance, a tumor pressing on the superior vena cava (a large vein carrying blood to the heart) can cause swelling in the face, neck, and upper body (superior vena cava syndrome).
In essence, lung cancer disrupts the delicate and efficient mechanism of gas exchange by physically obstructing airways, destroying functional tissue, causing fluid buildup, and potentially spreading to other areas, all of which progressively impair a person’s ability to breathe and maintain oxygen levels.

It’s common to experience increased hunger and cravings after quitting smoking. This is due to a combination of factors:
* Nicotine’s effect on metabolism: Nicotine speeds up your metabolism, so when you stop smoking, your body burns calories more slowly.
* Appetite suppression: Nicotine also acts as an appetite suppressant, so when it’s removed, your appetite can increase.
* Improved senses: Your taste and smell improve after quitting, making food more appealing.
* Behavioral replacement: You might unconsciously replace the habit of smoking with eating, especially when you’re stressed, bored, or in situations where you used to smoke.
* Cravings overlap: Nicotine withdrawal can lead to cravings for high-fat, high-sugar, and salty foods.
Here’s how you can control cravings and increased hunger after quitting smoking:
1. Healthy Eating Strategies:
* Plan your meals and snacks: Don’t wait until you’re ravenous. Having healthy options readily available can prevent you from reaching for unhealthy, high-calorie foods.
* Eat regular, smaller meals: Instead of 3 large meals, try 4-6 smaller meals throughout the day to keep your blood sugar steady and prevent extreme hunger.
* Focus on nutrient-dense foods:
* Fruits and vegetables: Keep them handy for snacks. They’re low in calories, high in fiber, and can satisfy the urge to chew. Examples: carrots, celery, apples, berries.
* Lean proteins: Help you feel full and satisfied.
* Whole grains: Provide sustained energy.
* Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water. Sometimes thirst can be mistaken for hunger. Carry a water bottle and sip throughout the day. Herbal tea or sparkling water with fruit can also be good options.
* Mindful eating:
* Eat slowly and savor your food.
* Pay attention to your hunger and fullness cues. Are you truly hungry, or are you eating out of habit, boredom, or stress?
* Avoid distractions while eating (like TV or your phone).
* Limit unhealthy foods: Reduce processed foods, sugary drinks, high-fat snacks, and excessive salt. These can contribute to weight gain and may even trigger cravings.
* Be aware of portion sizes: Use smaller plates and measure out snacks. If you’re still hungry after your meal, wait 10 minutes before getting seconds to see if the hunger passes.
2. Manage Cravings (The 4 Ds):
* Delay: Cravings usually pass within a few minutes. Tell yourself you’ll wait 5-10 minutes, and often the urge will subside.
* Distract: Engage in an activity that takes your mind off the craving.
* Call a friend or family member.
* Go for a walk or do some light exercise.
* Chew sugar-free gum or suck on a hard candy.
* Do a short relaxation exercise or deep breathing.
* Engage in a hobby.
* Drink Water: As mentioned, sometimes thirst is mistaken for hunger.
* Deep Breathe: Take several slow, deep breaths to help calm your mind and body.
3. Lifestyle Adjustments:
* Exercise regularly: Physical activity not only burns calories but also helps reduce stress, boost your mood, and can suppress cravings. Even short bursts of activity can make a difference.
* Get enough sleep: Lack of sleep can disrupt hormones that regulate appetite, leading to increased hunger.
* Find alternative coping mechanisms: Identify what triggers your desire to eat after quitting smoking (e.g., stress, boredom). Develop healthy ways to cope, such as:
* Engaging in hobbies.
* Practicing mindfulness or meditation.
* Spending time with supportive friends and family.
* Taking a relaxing bath.
* Keep your hands and mouth busy: If you miss the oral fixation of smoking, try chewing gum, sugar-free mints, healthy crunchy snacks (like carrot sticks), or even a straw or toothpick.
4. Seek Support:
* Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) or medications: Products like nicotine patches, gum, lozenges, or prescription medications (like bupropion or varenicline) can help manage withdrawal symptoms, including cravings and potentially hunger. Talk to your doctor about these options.
* Talk to a healthcare professional: If you’re struggling significantly with hunger or weight gain, consult your doctor or a dietitian. They can provide personalized advice and support.
* Support groups or quitlines: Connecting with others who understand what you’re going through can be incredibly helpful.
Remember, quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health, even if you experience some temporary weight gain. Focus on building healthy habits, and be kind to yourself during this transition.

The Balochistan government likely needed to issue an advertisement warning against taking selfies with terrorists due to the complex and challenging security situation in the province. Here’s a breakdown of the probable reasons:
* Prevalence of Separatist and Militant Groups: Balochistan has been a hotbed of separatist and militant activity for decades. Groups like the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and others are active in the region, carrying out attacks against security forces, civilians, and infrastructure. This means there’s a real possibility of encountering such individuals.
* Blurred Lines and Propaganda: In some cases, there can be a blurring of lines between genuine local grievances and the activities of extremist groups. Militant organizations often seek to gain sympathy and support from the local population, and individuals might be misled or coerced into showing solidarity. Taking selfies could be a way these groups attempt to normalize their presence or create propaganda.
* New Legislation and Increased Scrutiny: The Balochistan Assembly recently passed the Counter-Terrorism (Balochistan Amendment) Act 2025. This new law gives sweeping powers to security forces, allowing for detention based on suspicion and expanded authority for joint investigation teams. This intensified legal framework means any perceived association with terrorists, even through seemingly innocuous acts like selfies, could lead to severe consequences. The advertisement would serve to inform the public about the heightened risks under this new law.
* Countering Extremist Narratives: Governments often employ public awareness campaigns to counter extremist narratives and discourage any form of association or glorification of militant groups. Warning against selfies with terrorists is a direct way to communicate that such actions are not only illegal but also contribute to the normalization and potential recruitment efforts of these groups.
* Public Safety and Awareness: Beyond legal ramifications, there’s a genuine concern for public safety. Being in close proximity to or interacting with armed individuals, especially those involved in illegal activities, can be extremely dangerous. The advertisement would serve as a warning to citizens to avoid such encounters for their own well-being.
* Information Black Hole and State Control: Balochistan has historically been an “information black hole,” with limited transparency regarding the conflict and human rights issues. The government’s messaging, including such advertisements, is part of its effort to control the narrative and reinforce its stance against all forms of militancy.
In essence, the advertisement highlights the government’s efforts to assert its authority, combat militancy, and manage public perception in a region where the lines between political activism, separatism, and terrorism are often contested and blurred. It also aims to educate the public about the severe legal and personal risks associated with any perceived support for or interaction with terrorist elements.