Smoking accounts for the vast majority of lung cancer cases, and is also responsible for most cancers affecting the mouth and throat. However, it is not an easy task to get rid of that gnawing tobacco craving, especially after several failed attempts.
In fact, about half of people who try to quit smoking fail during the first week. Fortunately, many people have successfully quit — and you can too.
Benefits start in just 20 minutes.
That’s the time it takes to see a drop in blood pressure and pulse rate, according to the American Cancer Society. The risk of suffering a heart attack decreases within 24 hours. Your ability to taste and smell improves within 48 hours. Two weeks after quitting, lung function improves. After a month, you will notice less coughing, your sinuses will be clearer, and you will feel more energized.
Benefits down the road are even greater.
Studies show that one year after quitting, an ex-smoker’s risk of developing heart disease is half that of a smoker’s. Within five years, the risks of dying from lung cancer or developing cancer of the mouth, throat, or esophagus are half that of a smoker’s. After 10 years of stopping, an ex-smoker’s risks for developing lung cancer or heart disease drop to that of a lifelong nonsmoker.
When it comes to enjoying better health, the sooner you quit, the sooner you’ll start a healthier lifestyle.