How to quit smoking cigarettes

Health effects on smoking

The average smoker will have a shortened life, about eight years. Life expectancy improves after a smoker quits.

Smoking is related many diseases and conditions. Most of these start to reverse after a smoker quits smoking. In a matter of hours the benefits of quitting may begin.

All smokers are at extra risk for:

Coronary heart disease (for example, heart attacks);
Peripheral vascular disease (circulatory problems);
Aortic aneurysm;
High blood pressure;
High cholesterol (LDL);
Lung cancer;
Cancer of the mouth, throat and voice box;
Cancer of the pancreas;
Cancer of the kidney, and urinary bladder;
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD);
Chronic bronchitis;
Emphysema;
Pneumonia;
Influenza (the “flu”);
The common cold;
Peptic ulcers;
Chronic bowel disease (Crohn’s Disease);
Tooth decay (cavities);
Gum disease;
Osteoporosis;
Sleep problems (falling asleep inappropriately and/or frequent waking);
Cataracts; and
Thyroid disease (Grave’s Disease).

Female smokers are at an extra risk for:

Cancer of the cervix (womb);
Menstrual problems;
Fertility problems; and
Spontaneous abortion (miscarriage).

Male smokers have an extra risk of:

Erectile dysfunction (impotence); and
Fertility problems (problems with sperm).

Smoking may also be related to cancer of the large intestine and leukemia. Along with various other diseases, smoking can also wrinkle your skin and create the appearance of premature aging. Smoking will also reduce the sense of smell and taste.

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