Jun 12, 2025
From 1 hour to 15 years: The benefits of quitting smoking
Siddhartha JanaImmediate recovery begins
Within 20 minutes, heart rate and blood pressure drop. Circulation starts to improve as the body begins healing almost instantly after the last cigarette.
Source: Canva
After 12 hours - Oxygen boost
Carbon monoxide levels drop to normal, improving oxygen flow in the blood. This helps prevent suffocation risks linked to smoking.
Source: Canva
After 1 day - Heart health improves
Blood pressure drops, oxygen rises, and heart attack risk starts decreasing. Physical activity becomes easier, supporting heart health.
Source: Canva
After 2–3 days - Senses return
Damaged nerves start healing, improving taste and smell. Breathing becomes easier, and energy levels rise as the lungs begin to recover.
Source: Canva
After 2 weeks - Better circulation
Blood flows more freely through the heart and muscles. Lung function improves, making exercise easier and enhancing overall endurance.
Source: Canva
After 1 month - Less cough, more clean-up
Cilia in the lungs regain function, clearing mucus and reducing infection risk. Coughing and breathlessness also decline.
Source: Canva
After 1 year - Heart risk halved
The risk of coronary heart disease and heart attack drops to half of that of a smoker. Long-term heart health greatly improves.
Source: Canva
After 5–15 years - Cancer and heart disease drop
Risk of various cancers (mouth, throat, bladder) and stroke falls. After 15 years, heart disease risk nearly matches that of a non-smoker.
Source: Canva
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