Are you thinking it’s too late to stub out that cigarette for good? Think again! A groundbreaking study from the University of Toronto, published in NEJM Evidence, has brought a breath of fresh air for smokers and ex-smokers alike, revealing that quitting smoking before age 40 can lead to a life expectancy almost on par with those who’ve never smoked. But the good news doesn’t stop there; even those who quit later in life can see a rapid return to near non-smoker longevity within a decade!
The study, which followed 1.5 million adults across the U.S., UK, Canada, and Norway over 15 years, found that smokers aged 40 to 79 were three times more likely to die than non-smokers, losing an average of 12 to 13 years of life. However, those who kicked the habit reduced their risk of death by 30 percent compared to lifelong smokers. And for those who think they’ve missed the boat, the study has a message: it’s never too late. Quitting smoking at any age was linked to increased survival, with significant benefits seen in as little as three years.
Prabhat Jha, a professor at the University of Toronto and executive director of the Centre for Global Health Research at Unity Health Toronto, emphasized the effectiveness of quitting smoking, stating, ‘Quitting smoking is ridiculously effective in reducing the risk of death, and people can reap those rewards remarkably quickly.’ Jha’s words are a clarion call to those who believe they’re past the point of no return when it comes to smoking cessation.
The study also highlighted the reduction in death from vascular disease and cancer among former smokers. While the risk of death from respiratory diseases was also lowered, the decrease was less pronounced, likely due to the lasting lung damage caused by smoking.
With around 60 million smokers in the study’s participating countries and over a billion worldwide, the findings underscore the urgent need for government action to support smoking cessation. Jha advocates for increased taxes on cigarettes and improved cessation supports, such as clinical guidelines, helplines, and a health-system-wide approach to encourage quitting.
The study’s implications extend beyond individual health benefits. Tobacco not only takes a toll on human life but also wreaks havoc on the environment. Cigarette butts, one of the most frequently discarded items globally, contain toxic substances like arsenic and lead, which leach into water and soil. Tobacco smoke contributes to air pollution, and the production of cigarettes involves deforestation and the use of harmful chemicals.
Research published in JAMA Network Open has found that quitting smoking can lead to significant improvements in mental health, challenging the misconception that smoking is necessary for stress relief. This is particularly relevant for individuals with mental health conditions.
The message is crystal clear: giving up smoking is a powerful step towards a healthier life and environment. It’s a change that brings quick and significant benefits, no matter when you begin. So, if you’re a smoker, take comfort in the fact that it’s never too late to quit, and the journey to a longer, healthier life could be just one decision away.
