Welcome to our Public Health information on how smoking effects your well-being. Smoking remains a significant health concern, causing a range of serious health issues. Understanding the risks and making informed choices is crucial for a healthier life.
- Lung Health: Smoking is a leading cause of lung diseases, including chronic bronchitis and lung cancer. Quitting smoking improves lung function and reduces the risk of breathing problems.
- Brain Health: Smoking increases the risk of dementia, including Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia. Quitting reduces your risk substantially. Stopping smoking could prevent or delay up to 40% of dementia cases.
- Mental Health: Smoking can negatively impact mental health by increasing the risk of anxiety, depression, and stress due to nicotine addiction and harmful chemicals in tobacco.
- Heart Benefits: Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Quitting smoking can lead to improved cardiovascular health, reducing the likelihood of heart-related issues.
- Cancer Prevention: Smoking is linked to various cancers, not just in the lungs but also in the mouth, throat, oesophagus, breast cancer and more. Quitting smoking decreases the risk of developing these cancers.
- Better physical and mental health: The day you stop, your body starts clearing itself of the toxicity created by smoking and the repair process begins.
- Better for your family and friends: If you have stopped smoking and are physically and mentally healthy, you're more likely to be able to support your loved ones – and be a part of their lives in the future.
To find out more visit www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking or for local support contact Be Healthy Bucks, or text ‘SMOKE’ to 60777.
Find out why now is the right time to quit
- Your sense of taste will return and you will enjoy the taste of food more
- Your breathing and general fitness will improve
- The appearance of your skin and teeth will improve
- You'll be more confident in social situations because you won't smell of stale smoke any more
- You will protect the health of those around you by not exposing them to second-hand smoke.
- You could save a large amount of money. Use this cost calculator to find out how much you could save: www.nhs.uk/smokefree/why-quit/cost-calculator
Quitting smoking is one of the best things you and your partner can do to help your baby develop during pregnancy and beyond.
We know that it can be difficult to stop smoking, but we know that you want to give your baby the best possible start in life.
The risks of smoking during pregnancy are serious. From premature delivery to an increased risk of miscarriage, stillbirth or sudden infant death. No matter what stage you're at in your pregnancy, it's never too late to stop smoking.
Secondhand Smoke and Beyond
The impact of smoking extends beyond just you. Secondhand smoke affects those around you. By quitting, you not only protect yourself but also contribute to a healthier environment for your loved ones.