Whether you have smoked your whole life or just picked up a new habit,
it is never too late—or too soon—to quit! The U.S. Department
of Health and Human Services estimates an average of 7,000 chemicals are
in tobacco smoke, increasing the risk of numerous diseases, including
cancer. According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more
Americans are addicted to nicotine than any other drugs. While difficult
to do, quitting smoking can have almost instantaneous effects on your health.
The Positive Impact of Kicking Your Smoking Habit
Did you know that within just 20 minutes of quitting smoking, your body
registers positive effects? To help you stay motivated and encourage you
to kick your smoking habit, here are five things that happen when you stop:
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Lower Blood Pressure & Heart Rate
Within 20 minutes of giving up cigarettes, your body’s blood pressure
will drop to normal. Your pulse will also drop to a normal rate. Your
body’s temperature will increase in both hands and feet.
-
Reduce the Risk of Lung Cancer
The American Lung Association names smoking as the main cause of lung
cancer. Tobacco smoke contributes to an average of 80% of deaths in men
and women. But when an individual stops smoking, they reduce the risk
of such cancer. Within five years, a smoker can cut their risk of lung
cancer in half.
-
Breathe Easier
By the first month of a smoke-free life, individuals will be breathing
easier. Tobacco and nicotine interfere with the body’s cilia—the
tiny hair-like structures that clear mucus out of the lungs. Once you
stop smoking, the cilia can do their job and help clear the lungs of mucus
and reduce the risk of infection. This will also help reduce coughing,
wheezing, and shortness of breath.
-
Reduce the Risks of Coronary Heart Disease
Smoking increases the body’s blood pressure and the tendency for
blood to blot. This contributes to serious heart diseases, such as heart
attacks and strokes. While it takes a little longer, smokers who quit
greatly reduce their risk of heart disease.
-
Increase in Savings
The average cost of cigarettes is around $5.51, though in some states
it can go as high as $14. If you were to smoke an average of 20 cigarettes
at about $21 a day, you can potentially spend up to $7,700 a year. Needless
to say, quitting smoking can help you save a lot of money and better invest
that money in your health.
At Anaheim Regional Medical Center, we believe everyone should be able
to enjoy a happy, healthy life. One way to achieve this is to stop smoking.
We offer a free
Tobacco Cessation Program for those who are ready to take the next step. You don’t have to
do this alone!
This article contains general information about medical conditions and
treatments. The information is not advice and should not be treated as
such. The information is not intended to replace the advice or diagnosis
of a physician.
If you have any specific questions about any medical matter you should
consult your doctor or other professional healthcare provider.