Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death.
But there is good news — quitting is possible!
Fact: There are more former smokers than
current smokers.
While quitting is tough and may take several
attempts, sometimes upwards of 7 to 10 times before
being successful, it’s important to not give up! And,
to get help and seek support.
Health benefits of quitting
Quitting smoking will decrease your risk of
serious diseases like cancer, heart disease, chronic
obstructive pulmonary disorder and chronic
bronchitis. You will notice other improvements too:
- 20 minutes: heart rate and blood pressure drop.
- 12 hours: carbon monoxide level in the blood
returns to normal. - 3 months: heart attack risk begins to drop,
circulation and lung function improves. - 1 year: risk of coronary heart disease is
cut in half.
Financial benefits after quitting
Smoking is pricey — an average cigarette pack in
Oregon costs $9.37. Quit and save:
- 1 week: $65.59.
- 1 month: $281.10.
- 1 year: $3,420.08.
Start with small changes
- List personal reasons to quit. Put the list where
you can see it. - Replace one cigarette per day with a
different activity. - Recognize the urge to smoke will pass whether
you smoke or not. - Take 8 to 10 deep breaths when you have an urge.
It’s never too late to quit! Attend an online Freedom
From Smoking workshop. Learn more or register at
samhealth.org/HealthEdHub.
