Major Study Shows Quitting Smoking at Any Age Reduces Cancer Risk, Particularly for Lung Cancer
Quitting smoking is known to have numerous health benefits, and a major study has now revealed that it can significantly reduce the risk of developing cancer, particularly lung cancer. The study, conducted by researchers at the National Cancer Center near Seoul, analyzed medical data from nearly 3 million Koreans who had health examinations between 2002 and 2019. The findings showed that the most substantial drop in cancer risk occurred after the first decade of quitting smoking.
The study found that the chances of developing cancer were halved in individuals who had quit smoking for at least 15 years compared to those who continued to smoke. The risk of lung cancer, in particular, decreased further and faster, especially in those who quit before middle age. After an average follow-up period of 13 years and five months, the risk of lung cancer among quitters fell by an impressive 42%. Smaller reductions of 27%, 20%, and 14% were recorded for liver, colorectal, and stomach cancers, respectively.
Cancer is responsible for more than a quarter of all deaths in the UK each year, with lung cancer being the most common form. Smoking is a leading cause of various cancers, affecting organs such as the lungs, bladder, stomach, bowels, kidneys, and liver. It is also the largest preventable cause of cancer-related deaths in the country.
The study further revealed that individuals who quit smoking before the age of 50 experienced a 57% reduction in lung cancer risk over the follow-up period compared to those who continued to smoke. Even those who quit at 50 or older still saw a significant 40% decrease in their lung cancer risk. These findings emphasize that it is never too late to quit smoking and reap the health benefits associated with it.
Dr. Jin-Kyoung Oh, the lead researcher of the study, highlighted the importance of quitting smoking at any age. He stated, “Quitting smoking, no matter your age, can have significant health benefits. Individuals who quit smoking after middle age had a 40% lower risk of developing lung cancer compared to those who continued smoking. Don’t think it’s too late. We encourage you to consider starting your journey to quit smoking.”
The development of cancer is a complex process involving DNA mutations and the uncontrollable replication of damaged cells. Professor Robert West, an expert on addiction from University College London, explained that the longer a smoker continues to smoke, the greater their chances of developing cancer. Therefore, quitting smoking earlier in life yields greater benefits in terms of reducing cancer risk.
Professor West emphasized the importance of quitting smoking as early as possible, stating, “For smokers, this shows how crucial it is to stop smoking as young as possible. There is a benefit at every age but, the younger smokers can stop, the more of their lives they get back.” He also advised smokers to seek evidence-based specialist stop-smoking support rather than attempting to quit cold turkey.
Malcolm Clark, a senior prevention policy manager at Cancer Research UK, stressed the need for support to help individuals quit smoking. He expressed support for the UK government’s increased funding for stop-smoking services and upcoming legislation to change the age of tobacco sale. Implementing these measures could play a significant role in preventing the next generation from becoming addicted to tobacco.
In conclusion, this major study provides compelling evidence that quitting smoking at any age can significantly reduce the risk of developing cancer, particularly lung cancer. The findings highlight the importance of early cessation and the need for support systems to help individuals quit smoking. It is never too late to quit smoking and improve one’s health, and with the right resources and determination, anyone can embark on their journey towards a smoke-free life.
