By Paul Sachs, MD, Director of Pulmonary Medicine and Pulmonary Rehabilitation

To quit or not to quit? It seems like a no-brainer, doesn’t it? Truth be told, it’s not always that simple. If you’ve been thinking about quitting smoking, are in the process of quitting, or need an extra push to get started, here are some pointers that may help inspire you.

1. Breathe easier.

Carbon Monoxide in the cigarettes blocks the uptake of oxygen in your blood. This improves within hours of quitting.

2. Take a free vacation every year.

Cigarettes are expensive. For example, it costs over $3,000 per year for a one-pack-per-day smoker. You will also save money on cleaning expenses, insurance premiums, etc.

3. Look younger.

Smoking is associated with multiple skin problems, especially premature facial wrinkles and constriction of blood vessels.

4. Meet the person of your dreams.

Surveys show that most single people will not even consider dating a smoker. “Kissing a smoker is like licking and ashtray,” as the popular saying goes.

5. Feel good about hugging someone.

The sense of smell is impaired for smokers, but nonsmokers can smell the cigarette use immediately.

6. Food will taste better.

As your sense of smell improves, so will your sense of taste.

7. Avoid having children who smoke.

A very strong factor associated with starting smoking is having a parent who smokes. After all, kids do as you do, not as you say.

8. Minimize your stress and enjoy all the extra time.

Don’t stress about where, when, and how you are going to take those smoking breaks, or how you are going to survive long travel times. Use your newfound free time to focus on family, career, and life goals that matter to you.

9. Smile with confidence again.

The yellow film on the teeth of smokers improves every time an ex-smoker brushes his or her teeth.

10. Live healthier and longer!

The body can be more forgiving that you think. The risks of heart disease, stroke, and many other medical problems eventually return to that of a NEVER smoker. Studies show that at ANY age, you will live longer if you stop smoking.

Case in point? It’s never too late to benefit from quitting! We also offer a comprehensive “Commit to Quit” smoking cessation program at our hospital for those who truly want to stop smoking . You’ll be paired with a trained tobacco cessation specialist to personally guide you and help you to break your addiction forever. We want to help put you on the road to a new and healthier life.