In 5 to 15 years, the risk of stroke for ex-smokers returns to the level of those who've never smoked. Male smokers who quit between ages 35 to 39 add an average of 5 years to their lives. Female quitters in this age group add 3 years. Healthcare providers, co-workers, peers, and especially family members can help give you the resources and emotional support you need to quit. Cigarettes contain at least 43 distinct cancer-causing chemicals.
Smoking is also a major factor in coronary heart disease, stroke, and asthma.
More than 22 million American women are smokers. Lung cancer will cause an estimated 67,000 female deaths in 1998, compared with 43,500 estimated female deaths caused by breast cancer. Smoking by parents is also associated with a wide range of adverse effects in their children, including exacerbation of asthma, increased frequency of colds and ear infections, and sudden infant death syndrome. All Rights Reserved.