You can reap the benefits of quitting smoking in as little as 20 minutes.

After 20 minutes

Blood pressure and pulse rate improve to healthier levels.

After 8 hours

Carbon monoxide and oxygen levels in blood return to normal.

After 1 day

Your chance of a heart attack decreases.

After 2 days

Nerve endings regenerate; sense of smell and taste are enhanced.

After 2 weeks

Circulation improves and lung function increases.

After 1-9 months

Coughing, sinus congestion, fatigue and shortness of breath decrease.

After 1 year

Chance of heart attack is cut in half.

After 5 years

Stroke risk is reduced to the same levels as a non-smoker.

After 10 years

Risk of dying from lung cancer is about half that of a current smoker.

After 15 years

Risk of coronary heart disease and death is about the same as it is for those who have never smoked.