You probably know the effects of smoking, but do you know the wonderful effects of quitting?

• In 20 minutes, your heart rate and blood pressure drop
• In 12 hours, your blood’s carbon monoxide level returns to normal
• In 2-12 weeks, your circulation improves and lung function increases
• In 1-9 months, coughing and shortness of breath decrease, and your lungs regain the ability to clean themselves and reduce the risk of infection
• In 1 year, your excess risk of heart disease is half that of a smoker
• In 5-15 years, your risk of stroke is reduced to that of a nonsmoker
• In 10 years, your risk of lung cancer is just half that of a smoker, and your risk for several other cancers decreases too
• In 15 years, your risk of heart disease is the same as a nonsmoker

And there’s more! You’ll feel better, breathe easier, have more energy, regain your senses of smell and taste, enjoy whiter teeth and fresher breath, and have fewer wrinkles, lower your risk of cataracts, be proud of your accomplishment and inspire others around you.

If you or your loved one is a smoker, quitting is the very best thing you can do for your health. No matter what your age and how long you’ve smoked, quitting can help you live longer and healthier. What are you waiting for?