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Stop Smoking Benefits
The stop smoking benefits are well documented. In fact, most people who smoke
already know what they are, and yet continue to smoke. Unfortunately, their addiction
to nicotine will often overwhelm their capacity to act on the benefits that lay before
them. Justification of the habit and denial that anything bad will happen, makes the
health benefits seem cloudy and irrelevant.
Or perhaps the smoker does see the stop smoking benefits, but is willing to accept
the risk because they just enjoy smoking too much. Regardless, the stop smoking
benefits are still there and still very real.
The only question that remains, is whether the smoker will take the path of least
resistance or decide the stop smoking benefits are worth it to them and their family.
But remember, the smoker will immediately reap the stop smoking benefits the
very first day they stop smoking.
Lung Cancer
Studies have shown a reduced risk for lung cancer. For those who quit smoking for
10 years, the risk is 30-50% less than current smokers. Also, if you have quit for 15
years, the risk may be 80-90% less than current smokers. An estimated 90% of all
lung cancer is related to smoking. As of 2007, lung cancer mortality was an
astounding 50%.
Lung Disease
Studies also show the progression of lung disease (COPD) is slowed after
someone stops smoking. The earlier the smoker quits, the less damage they’ll
have. This translates to a better quality of life while experiencing greater
independence with less need for medications, therapy and healthcare services.
Former smokers also report less coughing and phlegm (mucous) after one year.
Cardiovascular
A literature review found a reduction of coronary heart disease risk
by 36% in people who had stopped smoking. This is a slightly better risk reduction
for the heart than is seen with other heart disease interventions such as taking
cholesterol lowering medications or aspirin.
Pregnancy
Up to 30% of pregnant women smoke. Nicotine has extremely negative effects on
the baby as it is easily transmitted through the mother's bloodstream. It is also
carried in the breast milk of a nursing mom. Studies have shown that only 25% of
women who do smoke, will stop at any point during their pregnancy. But smoking
and pregnancy do not mix.
Your unborn child gets the best stop smoking benefit. Women who smoke, typically
have lower birth-weight babies (less than 5.5 lbs), and are 2-3 times more likely to
die from SIDS than babies born to non-smokers. When babies are born too early,
they may be developmentally and physically challenged. These babies have a
greater risk for cerebral palsy, learning disabilities and even death.
If possible, begin a smoking cessation program prior to getting pregnant. Studies
continue to show that smoking has even been linked to women having trouble
getting pregnant. Finally, smoking can double your risk for bleeding too much during
delivery. This puts both you and your baby at risk. So, give yourself and your baby a
healthy new start by quitting smoking.
Oral Health Benefits
Smoking can have tremendous affects on periodontal health. Oral lesions can
quickly turn cancerous if not detected early. Oral cancer is a growing concern for
many dental professionals and has become a priority for the American Academy of
Periodontology. Unfortunately, many oral cancer screenings are not conducted.
Smoking worsens tooth decay and periodontal disease. It is also known for causing
stains and offensive breath in those who use tobacco. Smoking and other tobacco
products keep the oral tissues in a constant inflammatory (swollen) state.
Treatment plans that involve periodontal surgery are exacerbated by the slow
healing times found in smokers. Luckily, smoking and other tobacco cessation
results in immediate oral health benefits. Rates for oral cancer are reduced, as is
periodontal disease.
Secondhand Smoke Exposure
Breathing in secondhand smoke (SHS) can trigger or worsen asthma related
symptoms, cause ear and respiratory infections, and increase the risk of sudden
infant death syndrome (SIDS) in children.
Adults can have their risk for lung cancer and heart disease increased by 20-30% by
secondhand smoke. So when you quit smoking, other people enjoy stop smoking
benefits. Those around you can breathe easier knowing the air around them is
clean.
Back in 1990, it was estimated that 88% of nonsmokers were exposed to SHS. In
2005, that number is now estimated at 40%. SHS continues to be a problem,
especially among young children age 3-11 years old (54%) and in the black, non-
Hispanic population (56%). The Centers for Disease Control continue to stress that
there is no safe level of secondhand smoke exposure.
Additional Stop Smoking Benefits
Smokers may also see an improvement in the following areas, even beginning on Day 1
 | | Appearance
|  | | Breath
|  | | Body odor
|  | | Taste of food
|  | | Finances
|  | | Greater Confidence
|  | | Dental hygiene
|  | | Time management
|  | | Reduced fire risk
|  | | Energy levels
|  | | Sense of well-being
|  | | Better insurance rates
|  | | Sense of smell
|  | | Morning smokers cough
|  | | Sense of freedom from nicotine
|  | | Use of air fresheners
|  | | Self-consciousness about smell
|  | | No sneaking around out for a smoke
|  | | Voice
|  | | Less anxiety - long term
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Stop Smoking Help
Let us HELP you start enjoying what life can be!
We've been helping people breathe easier for 20 years. Let our experience help you. www.stopsmokinghelper.org
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Stop Smoking Help
Let us HELP you start enjoying what life can be!
We've been helping people breathe easier for 20 years. Let our experience help you. www.stopsmokinghelper.org
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