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Quitting smoking is the single most influential factor for reducing the risk of cancer. Many smokers and tobacco users find it difficult to quit, however, as the nicotine in tobacco is an addictive drug. In addition to increasing a person’s heart rate and blood pressure, the body becomes physically and psychologically dependent on nicotine, which creates a temporary feeling of happiness or pleasure that makes the smoker crave the nicotine even more.
For those smokers who do try to quit, withdrawal symptoms, such as nervousness, headaches, irritability or difficulty sleeping, often lead to resuming the habit. However, there are ways to increase the odds of successfully overcoming a nicotine addiction. Many programs are offered by the American Cancer Society (ACS) and American Lung Association and there are numerous over-the-counter and prescription products, such as gums and patches, that can help a person quit using tobacco products.
Physicians and healthcare professionals are increasingly becoming aware of their importance in helping their patients kick the habit. Research studies have found that physicians who recommend intensive counseling, in addition to prescribing nicotine patches or similar devices, are more effective in getting their patients to quit for good. Dialogue between physicians and patients is critical in assuring that smokers get the necessary help and support for quitting.
The benefits of quitting smoking are substantial. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) reports that soon after an individual quits smoking or using tobacco products, his or her cancer risk drops substantially. It continues to decline even more each year after quitting the habit. Since nicotine affects other systems within the body, including the hormonal system, nervous system, metabolism and brain, the benefits of quitting can impact nearly every aspect of a person’s health.
In addition to lowering cancer risk, giving up tobacco use can dramatically reduce the risk of heart disease, emphysema, bronchitis and stroke. Most physicians agree that quitting smoking is the single most important action people can take for their health.
The ACS reports the following benefits of quitting smoking and the immediate benefits to be gained:
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Elapsed time
since quitting |
Benefit |
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20 minutes |
Drop in the heart rate |
|
12 hours |
Level of carbon monoxide in the blood returns to normal |
|
2 weeks to
3 months |
Noticeable improvement in circulation, lung function improves |
|
1 to 9 months |
Shortness of breath and coughing begin to subside, normal function in the lungs begins to return, including an increased ability to clean the lungs and fight infection |
|
1 year |
The risk of heart disease drops to half that of a smoker’s |
|
5 years |
The risk of stroke is the same as a nonsmoker (5–15 years after quitting) |
|
10 years |
The risk of dying from lung cancer is half that of a smoker’s. Also, the risk of cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, bladder, cervix and pancreas decrease. |
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15 years |
The risk of heart disease is the same as a nonsmoker’s |
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