A tobacco user who quits can expect health benefits immediately and throughout life.
Even within minutes of quitting, the body begins to experience positive changes. For example, heart rate and blood pressure can drop, and carbon monoxide levels in the blood return to normal quickly. Over time, the risks of various health issues decrease significantly, making lifelong cessation highly beneficial.
Here’s a brief overview of some benefits over time after quitting:
- 20 minutes after quitting: Heart rate drops.
- 12 hours after quitting: Carbon monoxide levels normalize.
- 2 weeks to 3 months: Circulation improves and lung function increases.
- 1 year: The risk of coronary heart disease is about half that of a smoker's.
- 5 to 15 years: Stroke risk is reduced to that of a non-smoker.
- 10 years: The risk of lung cancer drops significantly.
Overall, quitting smoking leads to immediate and long-term health benefits.
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