Quit smoking Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do to reduce your risk of heart attack. Twenty minutes after your last cigarette, your blood pressure and heart rate drop. The stress on your heart and blood vessels goes down. • Within 48 hours, your risk of heart attack starts to go down. Your sense of smell and taste begin to improve. • Within one year, your risk of heart attack is cut in half. • Within 10 to 15 years, your risk of heart attack is the same as someone who never smoked. You may be afraid that quitting will be too hard. There is lots of help for you when you are ready. Do not get discouraged or give up. It is never too late to quit. Where should I go for help?
Call 1-866-366-3667 to talk to someone about quitting. There are lots of helpful booklets and online programs and support to help you through the process. • Your healthcare team can help with nicotine replacement and other therapies. Manage stress For information on managing stress, see Chapter 5 . Understanding Your Heart And The Causes Of Heart Disease | 15