As COVID-19 restrictions are being tightened across the globe, is now the best time to quit smoking?

For some smokers, the self-isolation and lockdown restrictions imposed so far during the pandemic have helped them to cut down, or even quit, smoking. According to research in Italy, the lack of opportunities to maintain normal daily smoking habits such as whilst drinking coffee at a bar, or driving home from work, has led to a drop in tobacco consumption. Spending more time with their children and non-smoking partners, and respecting their wishes, is also an important factor. See the report here. But for others, the increased stress of being at risk of catching a potentially fatal disease, and the job insecurity, financial pressure, and family tensions it has created, are likely to have increased, rather than reduced, their desire to smoke. 

Unfortunately, because COVID-19 is a respiratory infection, smokers have an increased risk of contracting it, and, because they’re more likely to have underlying smoking-related health conditions, they’re also more likely to suffer more severe disease outcomes. So right now, if you’re a smoker, this could be the best time for you to quit. Not only will you be giving your lungs the chance to repair, and reducing your risk of catching COVID-19, there are lots of other benefits too… and they start almost immediately. Look at what happens when you stop smoking for good.

After 8 hours

Your oxygen levels are returning to normal, and the carbon monoxide in your blood has already reduced by 50%.

After 48 hours

All the carbon monoxide has gone, and your blood pressure is going down, decreasing your risk of heart disease and stroke. Receptors in your nerves have begun to heal, and your sense of taste and smell is improving.

After 72 hours

All traces of nicotine have gone now. The bronchial tubes in your lungs have started to relax, and your breathing is easier. The increased oxygen in your body reduces tiredness and the likelihood of headaches.

After 2 to 12 weeks

Your circulation is improving, making it easier for your heart to pump blood around your body. All physical activity, including walking and climbing stairs, is becoming much easier. Your immune system is getting stronger, making it easier to fight off colds and flu.

After 3 to 9 months

The delicate, hair-like structures inside your lungs are recovering, reducing your risk of infection. Lung capacity will have improved by around 10%, and you’re less likely to experience coughing and shortness of breath when exercising.

After 5 years

Your arteries and blood vessels are beginning to widen again, reducing the risk of clotting and stroke. If you had been smoking 10 cigarettes a day, you’ll have saved yourself £10,000 / €11,250 / $12,500.

After 10 years

Your risk of developing lung cancer has halved compared to that of a smoker. The chance that you’ll develop cancers of the mouth, oesophagus, throat and pancreas is also far less likely.

After 15 years

Your risk of having a heart attack or stroke drops to the same level as a person who has never smoked in their life.

Check out my previous blog (July 2020) here for a list of the practical support available to help you become a non-smoker. Good luck!

I hope you’ve found this article useful. If you have any thoughts to share, or ideas for future posts, please do let me know. I would love to hear from you.