Quitting smoking can add years to your life and lets you take control of your health. Here are just some of the ways that your body starts to repair itself after you quit smoking:
After 20 Minutes
Your heart rate and blood pressure drop
After 12 Hours
The oxygen levels in your blood return to normal.
Within 48 Hours
Your sense of smell and taste start to improve.
Within 72 Hours
Breathing gets easier as your airways relax.
After 2 - 3 Weeks
Your circulation improves and your lung function increases by as much as 30%, making things like exercise easier.
After 1 - 9 Months
Coughing and shortness of breath decrease. Fewer colds and runny noses, and less fatigue.
After 1 Year
Your risk of coronary heart disease is half of that of someone who still smokes. Your risk of smoking-related heart attack drops by 50%.
After 5 Years
Your risk of stroke can fall to that of a non-smoker.
After 10 Years
Your risk of dying from lung cancer is about half that of a person who is still smoking. Your risk of cancer of the larynx or pancreas decreases.
After 15 Years
Your risk of heart attack is equal to that of a non-smoker.