Smokers who choose to quit on January 1 could gain back an entire day of their life by January 8, according to new research from University College London (UCL).
Smoking: the true cost to life
The study, commissioned by the Department for Health and Social Care, reveals that each cigarette reduces a smoker’s lifespan by approximately 20 minutes. This equates to nearly seven hours lost per pack of 20 cigarettes. If a smoker quits on New Year’s Day, they could reclaim a week of life by February 20 and avoid losing up to 50 days by the end of the year.
Support for quitters
Smokers looking to quit in 2025 can access resources such as the NHS Quit Smoking app and the Personal Quit Plan, which provides tailored support. These tools offer strategies to manage cravings and maintain motivation.
Government commitment to a smokefree future
The findings coincide with the government’s introduction of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, a landmark initiative aimed at creating the first smoke-free generation. Key measures include phasing out the sale of tobacco to anyone born after January 1, 2009, and extending smoking bans to certain outdoor areas like playgrounds and hospital entrances.
Health benefits of quitting
The health benefits of quitting smoking are immediate and profound. Within 72 hours of quitting, breathing becomes easier, and energy levels increase. Blood circulation improves after 12 weeks, and the risk of a heart attack is halved after one year. Smoking remains the leading preventable cause of death in the UK, contributing to 80,000 deaths annually and a quarter of all cancer deaths in England.
Dr. Jeanelle de Gruchy, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, emphasized, “Stopping smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health. This New Year, take the opportunity to start fresh and leave smoking in the past.”
Real-life success stories
Kamran, a former smoker, shared his journey to quitting: “I tried to quit several times but always went back. With support from my local stop smoking service, I finally succeeded. Now, I feel healthier and more present for my family. Quitting is challenging, but the rewards are worth it.”
Resources and treatments
To support smokers, the government has allocated an additional £70 million to stop smoking services for 2025/26. Local authorities will use these funds to provide resources like nicotine replacement therapy and counseling. Additionally, the NHS has introduced Varenicline, a medication proven to help people quit.
Professor Sanjay Agrawal, NHS England’s tobacco dependency advisor, urged smokers to seek help: “Quitting smoking is one of the best decisions you can make for your health. With the right support, it’s much easier to break free from the habit.”
A healthier future
The Tobacco and Vapes Bill also targets youth vaping, proposing a ban on advertising, flavored vapes, and environmentally harmful disposable vapes. These measures align with the government’s broader efforts to protect public health, reduce NHS waiting lists, and promote preventive care.
Dr. Sarah Jarvis, a GP and public health advocate, added, “Each cigarette smoked not only shortens life but also increases the risk of severe health conditions like heart disease, stroke, and dementia. Quitting is easier with a plan and the right support. The NHS is here to help.”
This New Year, take the first step towards a healthier, smokefree future. With government support, expert resources, and determination, you can reclaim your life and well-being. Photo by Challiyil Eswaramangalath Vipin from Chalakudy, India, Wikimedia commons.