Dr Robert Ostfeld, a leading cardiologist, has emphasized that quitting smoking delivers immediate health benefits regardless of age or the number of years a person has smoked. Contrary to common myths, research shows that the body begins to repair itself as soon as smoking stops.
Immediate benefits of quitting smoking
According to Dr Ostfeld, the health improvements begin from the very minute one decides to quit smoking. Within just one year of quitting, the risk of a heart attack reduces by almost 50 percent, offering a huge step toward better heart health.
He added that if a person remains smoke-free for 15 years, their risk of heart disease becomes nearly the same as someone who has never smoked. This proves that it’s never too late to make the decision to stop smoking and protect overall health.
Long-term health risks of smoking
Smoking continues to be one of the deadliest habits worldwide, damaging nearly every organ of the body. It is a major contributor to cardiovascular disease, strokes, and heart attacks. The Department of Health also highlights that smoking increases the likelihood of blood clots, which can block blood flow to the brain, heart, or limbs.
Additionally, smoking has been directly linked to type 2 diabetes. Active smokers face a 30 to 40 percent higher risk of developing diabetes compared to non-smokers. For people with type 1 diabetes, smoking can worsen existing conditions such as kidney disease, eye disease, poor circulation, and in severe cases, lead to gangrene.
Why quitting smoking matters now
Even if someone has smoked for decades, the body starts to recover once smoking stops. Quitting reduces gum disease risk, improves circulation, and lowers chances of life-threatening diseases. Cardiologists urge people to make the choice today, proving it’s never too late to quit smoking and prioritize health.