This Thursday is the Great American Smokeout, a national event sponsored each year by the American Cancer Society encouraging smokers to quit for one day as a first step toward a smoke-free life. November 20th is an ideal time for anyone thinking about quitting to take that first step.
Smoking increases the risk of many serious health problems, including heart attacks, chronic bronchitis and emphysema, and several types of cancer. In Monroe County, about 17% of adults smoke. Health officials say many smokers believe it’s too late to quit, but research shows the body begins to heal quickly after someone stops smoking.
Health benefits start almost immediately. Within 20 minutes, blood pressure and pulse return to normal. After eight hours, oxygen levels in the blood improve. Within 24 hours the risk of heart attack drops, and in just two days the senses of taste and smell start to return. Over the following weeks and months, breathing improves, coughing decreases, and energy levels rise. After one year, the risk of heart disease is cut in half, and after 15 years the risk is similar to someone who never smoked.
Anyone seeking help to quit can contact their healthcare provider, the American Cancer Society, or the Monroe County Health Department. More resources and updates can also be found on the Health Department’s Facebook and Instagram pages.
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