Five More Reasons to Quit Smoking

Many smokers plan to give up smoking in the New Year, but most fail to keep their promise after the first week. Several studies in 2012 showed more reasons to quit smoking that can benefit your health.

Lowers risk for cardiac death

A recent study revealed that smoking affects women more than men. Even light to moderate smokers who may seem healthy have an increased risk for sudden cardiac death.

Scientists have found that women who smoke even one cigarette per day have twice the risk for sudden cardiac death of non-smoking women. Furthermore, a woman’s risk of dying from sudden cardiac death increases by 8 percent for every 8 years of smoking.

Helps manage pain

People with chronic back pain experienced less discomfort after smoking cessation, according to a recent study from the University of Rochester.

Researchers analyzed data from more than 5,300 patients with a spinal disorder who underwent treatment and found that those who quit smoking got better while those who continued smoking showed no statistical improvements.

Adds more years to life

An Oct 2012 study published in The Lancet showed that women who smoke lose at least ten years of life on average. Researchers also found that quitting before 40 avoids more than 90% of the risk of smoking-related deaths and quitting before 30 avoids more than 97%.

Lowers cataracts risk

A study published in the Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science revealed that smoking increases the risk of developing age-related cataracts.

Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness and visual impairment in the world. Although cataract surgery is available, the cost may be high and carries a big risk.

Although researchers found a link between the disease and all those who have ever smoked, the incidence is still higher among current smokers.

Promotes healthy environment

Many studies have shown the dangers of passive smoking. Recently, researchers found that one hour of exposure to passive smoke can increase the affinity of the blood to clot, which can lead to heart attack and stroke.

Your health insurance plan can further support your decision to quit smoking by covering cessation programs and treatments, ensuring you have access to necessary healthcare services while improving your overall health and reducing risks associated with smoking.

Source: VISTA Health Solutions