After 15 years, their increased risk of heart disease disappears altogether. Likewise, the risk of developing bladder cancer is cut in half after five smoke-free years, and the increased risk of developing lung cancer is reduced over 50 percent after 10 years. For those concerned about weight gain, Ferentz suggests starting an exercise program before quitting. He also recommends keeping healthy snacks around such as celery sticks, carrots and sugar-free sweets to curb cravings. Besides, it is important to keep quitting in perspective.
People quit smoking successfully all of the time.
Unlike other drugs, no one ever died from smoking withdrawal, had a seizure or had to be hospitalized. If you can make it through the first few days and weeks, you will be all right. I tell my smoking cessation patients that they just need to take it one day at a time. This information is not intended to be a substitute for individual medical advice in diagnosing or treating a health problem. Please consult with your health care provider about your health care concerns.