Quit tobacco for Healthy Aging Month

BLOOMINGTON – Healthy Aging Month is observed every September to promote living healthier, happier lives. One of the ways you can start on the path to healthier living and aging is by quitting tobacco.

Kristen Terry

“Age spots, sagging skin, hair loss, and damaged teeth and gums are just a few things that tend to be accelerated in individuals who smoke compared to those who don’t,” said IU Health Community Health Tobacco Prevention Coordinator Kristen Terry. “Smokers also have an increased risk of cancer, heart disease, and other health issues.”

The good news is quitting smoking can help decrease the risk in some cases.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says heart attack risk drops quite a bit one year after quitting smoking. And stroke risk may be reduced to about the same risk as a nonsmoker within two to five years after quitting.

“You don’t have to go on this journey alone,” said Terry. “In fact, you’re more likely to win this fight with help from others. And there are people who want to help you.”

If you want to quit and need some help, call the Indiana Tobacco Quitline (1-800-QUIT-NOW) for free, evidence-based support to tobacco users who want to quit. Visit QuitNowIndiana.com to find out more.

About Indiana University Health
Named among the “Best Hospitals in America” by U.S. News & World Report for 23 consecutive years, Indiana University Health is dedicated to providing a unified standard of preeminent, patient-centered care. A unique partnership with Indiana University School of Medicine – one of the nation’s leading medical schools – gives our highly skilled physicians access to innovative treatments using the latest research and technology. Learn more at www.iuhealth.org.