Study Reveals Smoking Shortens Life Expectancy

A recent study from University College London reveals that each cigarette smoked shortens life expectancy by approximately 20 minutes, with men losing an average of 17 minutes and women 22 minutes per cigarette. This research indicates that lifelong smokers may lose around 10 years of life compared to non-smokers, emphasizing the urgent need for smoking cessation. Notably, quitting smoking can lead to immediate benefits, allowing a smoker who stops on January 1 to potentially regain a day of life by January 8, a week by mid-February, and up to 50 days by year's end. The study, commissioned by the UK Department for Health and Social Care, draws on extensive mortality data from the British Doctors Study and the Million Women Study. Healthcare professionals advocate for quitting smoking as a critical health decision, as it not only extends life but also improves quality of life. The UK government is aiming for a smoke-free generation by 2030 through various legislative measures.