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Smoking Facts
Smokers double their risk of dying from coronary heart disease, and if they
also suffer from high
blood pressure and high cholesterol levels, the risk
increases eight-fold.
40% of heavy smokers die before retirement age compared with 15% of
nonsmokers.
Children whose parents smoke are more likely to develop glue ear, asthma and
other breathing
problems than children of nonsmoking parents.
Smoking during pregnancy is of particular concern because it may damage the
health of the fetus,
as well
as the mother.
The Benefits of Quitting
Within 48 hours of
quitting, nicotine is no longer detectable in the body.
By 3-9 months breathing problems show improvement with lung function
increased by
5% - 10%.
In 5 years the risk of a heart attack falls to about half that of a smoker.
By 10 years risk of lung cancer falls to about half that of a smoker. Risk
of heart attack
becomes similar to
that of someone who has never smoked.
To Help Yourself Quit
Choose a day to stop and stop completely on that day - get rid of
cigarettes, ashtrays
and
lighters.
Tell everyone that you are stopping - they can offer encouragement and
support if you
are struggling.
Take it a day at a time, each day aim for just one more day.
Identify times that you usually smoke and ensure that you have something to
occupy
you. Some people
find that nicotine gum or patches help the initial withdrawal.
Think positive say you are a nonsmoker - not a smoker who has given up.
Save the cigarette money and buy yourself a reward.
Stay stopped - remember how well you have done so far, and how much
healthier you
will be.
Remember many people have to try several times before they succeed in
stopping for
good. It's a
strong addiction but don't give up trying - ask your family doctor for help.
Every day without a cigarette is a triumph.
Make today your quit day!
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