While the body heals naturally after quitting smoking, smoking impairs overall health and affects the heart. However, even once you quit smoking, and get rid of a cold, it still takes a long time for the body to fully recover. A recent study led by Seung Yong Shin, MD, PhD, of Korea University Ansan Hospital, studied 5.3 million people in South Korea to understand how the heart recovers after a person quits smoking. How much time does it take?
The research addresses the notion that not all smoking histories are created equal. People take their personal time to recover after quitting alcohol. For some, it may take years, while for others, it may take decades.
Also Read: Quit Smoking: Finding Safe Alternatives to Tobacco Cessation in India
The study focused on pack-years of smoking. A pack year is calculated by multiplying the number of cigarette packs a person has smoked by the number of years they have smoked.
The study found that light smokers who did not reach the eight pack-year limit developed the same heart health as non-smokers within five to ten years of quitting. However, for smokers, their heart health risk may be equal to that of non-smokers about 25 years after quitting.
Also read: How do I quit smoking?
learning outcome
The research was conducted with a comprehensive analysis of health records of 5,391,231 people in South Korea, which consisted of a predominantly male population with an average age of 45.8 years. These participants were tracked for an average of 4.2 years and their health conditions, including heart attacks, strokes and heart failure, were recorded. Their smoking history, number of cigarettes per day and when they quit smoking were also recorded.
The study revealed the devastating effects of smoking on health. It was observed that people with 30 pack-years had double the risk of cardiovascular diseases compared to people who had never smoked.
Also Read: 10 Health, Fitness Tips for People Trying to Quit Smoking and Working on Stronger Lungs
Study is a warning
This study challenges the notion that health improves immediately after quitting smoking. In fact, it takes a long time for the body to recover naturally after quitting alcohol. Studies help us understand the long-term effects of smoking and the time it takes for the body to recover.
Also read: It’s never too late to quit: Former smokers share inspiring stories
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
