There is no smoker who won’t benefit from kicking their habit. Stopping smoking lowers the risk of developing smoking-related health problems and slows the deterioration of any issues that have already arisen, improving quality of life as a consequence. The health of family and friends will also improve as a result of not being exposed to second-hand smoke, and the financial savings can be considerable.

Fast facts

• Carbon monoxide and nicotine both put a strain on the heart by making it work faster
• Chest pain, shortness of breath and a productive cough are all symptoms of chronic bronchitis
• Tar and other chemicals in cigarettes can cause mouth and throat cancer, as well as lung cancer.