No matter what your age or how long you have smoked, giving up cigarettes improves your chances of living a longer life. Just 12 hours after your last cigarette, the carbon monoxide level in your blood returns to normal. A year after you've quit, your risk of heart disease is half that of a smoker's. This quiz can help you learn about the benefits of quitting smoking.
Featured in
Author: Floria, Barbara
Online Medical Reviewer: Berry, Judith, PhD, APRN
Online Medical Reviewer: MMI board-certified, academically affiliated clinician
Date Last Reviewed: 10/01/2024
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Need Help? We're Here for You
Our Member Services team is here to help you understand your benefits, find care, or resolve concerns.
1-800-510-9132
Call NC Quitline
Need support to quit smoking, vaping, or to quit other nicotine products? You can receive support including medicines free of charge:
1-800-784-8669
Schedule Transportation
Need transportation to a doctor's office, pharmacy, or other covered healthcare service? Contact us to arrange your ride.
1-800-510-9132
Provider Directory
Need to find a provider like a Primary Care Physician, Specialist, OB/GYN, or a Psychiatrist?
Provider DirectoryRelated Articles
What Do You Know About Smokeless Tobacco?
The health consequences of using smokeless tobacco include increased heart rate, high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and mouth sores.
How Much Do You Know About Nicotine-Replacement Therapy?
Here is the latest information about nicotine replacements, inhaler therapy, and other aids that can help you stop smoking.
Secondhand Smoke
Secondhand smoke is the smoke you are exposed to when someone nearby is smoking. It includes the smoke exhaled by the smoker, and the smoke given off directly by the burning tobacco.
What Do You Know About COPD?
Smoking is the main cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a serious, debilitating and often fatal illness. Take this quiz to find out more about COPD and how to prevent it.
