Smoking is a bad habit that people find difficult to quit. The harmful effects of smoking are not only limited to the smoker but also to people around them.
The earlier one decides to quit smoking, the better for them and everyone else they come in contact with. With each passing year, more reasons emerge that should encourage smokers to quit the habit. This article highlights some of the best reasons to quit smoking in 2021.
Health Risks
The first, and probably the most critical reason to quit smoking, is the health risks associated with smoking. Smoking increases the risk of lung cancer, respiratory diseases, and heart diseases.
According to the World Health Organisation, an estimated 7 million people worldwide die each year as a result of smoking. These diseases not only reduce the quality of life but also result in premature deaths. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce the risks of developing these diseases.
Financial Reasons
Quitting smoking has financial benefits to the smoker. Smoking is expensive, and quitting smoking can save a considerable amount of money each month. For example, in the USA, a pack of cigarettes cost about $7.51.
If a smoker smokes a pack a day, they will spend approximately $2739.15 a year on cigarettes alone. These costs don’t include the additional health costs incurred when treating the diseases that result from smoking. Quitting smoking can help smokers save money to spend on other beneficial areas of their lives.
Social Stigma
Over the years, the social stigma associated with smoking has significantly increased. Smoking is no longer considered as cool or trendy. Instead, it is viewed as a bad habit that smells bad and ruins health.
Many places, including restaurants, bars, and public areas, have banned smoking. The smell of cigarette smoke is unpleasant, and it can have adverse effects on those around smokers. By quitting, smokers do not only protect their health, but also save themselves the embarrassment of being labeled as smokers.
Family and Friends
Smoking has harmful effects not only on the smoker but also on the people around them. Second-hand smoke is a serious health risk, especially for children and pregnant women.
Smokers who quit smoking show their friends and family that they prioritize their health and the health of others around them. By quitting smoking, smokers inspire those around them and protect their loved ones from the harmful effects of smoking.
Ageing Process
Smoking accelerates the aging process of the skin. It can cause premature wrinkles, dark circles, and sagging skin. Additionally, smoking has been linked to hair loss and yellowing of teeth. Quitting smoking can help reverse or slow down these effects.
Smokers who quit smoking notice that their skin becomes smoother, their teeth become whiter, and their hair thickens.
Better Physical Performance
Smoking reduces lung capacity and leads to shortness of breath. Quitting smoking can significantly improve lung capacity and enhance physical performance in activities such as running or cycling.
Smokers who quit smoking also report that they feel less fatigued and have more energy throughout the day.
Better Mental Health
Quitting smoking can also have positive effects on mental health. Studies have shown that smokers are at higher risk of mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety.
Quitting smoking can help improve mental health and reduce the risk of these disorders.
Positive Influence on Society
Quitting smoking not only has personal benefits but can also have a positive impact on society. Smoking has a severe impact on the environment. Cigarette butts are a significant contributor to litter and take many years to biodegrade.
Quitting smoking can help reduce the litter and pollution caused by cigarette butts.
Improved Sense of Taste and Smell
Smoking can damage taste buds and olfactory senses, leading to a diminished sense of taste and smell. Quitting smoking can reverse the effects of smoking and help smokers experience a more enhanced sense of taste and smell.
Makes It Easier to Quit Other Addictions
Quitting smoking can be a challenging process, but it can also be empowering. Quitting smoking can give a smoker the confidence to quit other addictions they may have.
Quitting smoking is a positive step forward that can inspire smokers to take further positive steps to improve their lives.