How To Halve Your Risk of a Heart Attack In a Year

Quitting smoking can dramatically improve your health, with one of the most significant benefits being a 50% reduction in your risk of a heart attack after just one year.

As Dylan Edwards, a senior clinician, and Smoke Free Strategic Lead for Wirral University Teaching Hospital (WUTH) said: “The body starts to heal almost immediately after quitting. Lung function improves, and the risks of heart disease and cancer decrease significantly over time.”

While the process of quitting can be challenging, the rewards for your health are undeniable, offering you more longevity and a better quality of life.

Not only does quitting smoking benefit your physical health, but it also boosts your mental wellbeing. Many people believe smoking relieves stress, but it worsens anxiety, depression, and stress.

Dylan, who is a Divisional Director of Nursing at WUTH, added: “Research shows that after the initial withdrawal phase, individuals experience lower anxiety and an improved mood. Within just six weeks of quitting, mental health benefits start to appear, leading to greater emotional stability and an overall sense of wellbeing.”

Additionally, quitting smoking protects vulnerable people from the dangers of second-hand smoke.

Dylan said: “Our hospitals are proudly smoke-free, and this policy is essential in protecting vulnerable patients from the serious health risks of second-hand smoke.” A smoke-free environment is crucial for everyone’s health, especially those in recovery.

If you’re ready to quit, there are many support options available. Safwa Alsaden, a Specialist Tobacco Dependency Practitioner for ABL Wirral stop smoking service said: “Smokers are much more likely to succeed at stopping smoking and remain stopped with specialist motivational support and medications e.g. nicotine replacement therapy, stop smoking medications or vapes”.

With professional assistance, quitting smoking becomes more achievable, and the benefits—both physical and mental—are substantial.

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Top 5 Tips for Quitting Smoking:

1.Set a Quit Date: Choose a specific day to stop smoking and prepare for it mentally.

2.Seek Support: Talk to family, friends, or a professional support service like ABL at smokefreewirral.co.uk

3.Consider Nicotine Replacement Therapy: Patches, gum, or lozenges can help manage cravings.

4.Stay Active: Exercise can reduce stress and improve your mood, making it easier to cope.

5.Stay Persistent: If you slip up, don’t give up. Many people require several attempts before quitting for good.