The majority of smokers who die early from smoking-related diseases, including heart disease, lung cancer, and chronic bronchitis, are long-term smoke

All of us know that smoking tobacco is one of the biggest reasons for premature death. However,

knowledge alone does not lead to action. Quite often we ignore the large, bold warning on the

cigarette pack and continue to indulge in this life-threatening vice. According to WHO, 12% of the

world’s smokers reside in India. More than 10 million people die in India every year due to illness

caused due to tobacco abuse. Billions of dollars are lost every year towards the treatment of tobacco-related illnesses and loss of productivity caused by the same.

It is quite clear that the benefits of quitting smoking are manifold, and need to be communicated as

clearly and as often as possible. It is a well-known fact that quitting smoking is not easy, but still

knowing the benefits that will follow, may possibly act as a motivating factor towards making a

serious effort to quit.

Benefits of quitting smoking

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 significantly reduced

2 Weeks to 3 Months After Quitting:

• Your risk of having a heart attack begins to drop.

• Your lung function begins to improve.

1 to 9 Months After Quitting:

• Your coughing and shortness of breath decrease.

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.

• Your risk of getting cancer of the mouth, throat, or esophagus is half that of a smokers

10 Years After Quitting:

• Your risk of dying from lung cancer is about half that of smokers.

• Your risk of getting bladder cancer is half that of smokers.

• 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 non-smoker.

Remember, there is no sure shot medicine to help you quit smoking. It is only up to you and your will

power. Take a minute to think about how your life can change for the better once you quit smoking,

and make an effort now.