Benefits of quitting

Quitting smoking is the single best thing you can do to improve your health and quality of life. Non-smokers have a much lower risk of getting dozens of smoking-related diseases like lung cancer, heart disease, and COPD. It doesn't take long for your body to start benefitting from quitting!

20 minutes after quitting:

Your heart rate drops to a normal level.

12 to 24 hours after quitting:

The carbon monoxide level in your blood drops to normal.
The risk of heart attack is reduced.
Your sense of smell and taste begin to improve.

2 weeks to 3 months after quitting:

Your lung function begins to improve and you can breathe easier.
Your circulation improves.

1 to 9 months after quitting:

You cough less and are short of breath less often.

1 year after quitting:

Your added risk of coronary heart disease is half that of a smoker's.

5 to 15 years after quitting:

Your risk of having a stroke is reduced to that of a nonsmoker's.
Your risk of getting cancer of the mouth, throat, or esophagus is half that of a smoker's.

10 years after quitting:

Your risk of dying from lung cancer is about half that of a smoker's.
Your risk of getting bladder cancer is half that of a smoker's.
Your risk of getting cervical cancer or cancer of the larynx, kidney or pancreas decreases.

15 years after quitting:

Your risk of coronary heart disease is the same as that of a nonsmoker.

Want more reasons to quit?

Your teeth will be whiter and your breath will be fresher
Your skin will look healthier and have fewer wrinkles
Your hair and clothes won't smell of smoke
Your breathing and general fitness level will improve
You will heal faster and have fewer complications after surgery
You'll set a good example for your children
Your smoking will no longer affect the health of people around you
You'll have more money to save or to spend on other things
You'll have more energy to do the things you love
You'll pay lower life insurance premiums
Cigarettes will no longer control your life