Quitting smoking drastically reduces the risk of heart attacks for individuals with coronary artery disease, according to a new study that emphasizes the importance of complete cessation. The research, presented at the ESC Congress 2024 in London, reveals that quitting smoking cuts the risk of major cardiovascular events by 44% in those diagnosed with coronary artery disease. However, the study also underscores that merely cutting back on smoking does not offer significant cardiovascular protection, reinforcing the need for individuals to fully quit.
The study analyzed data from over 32,000 individuals with coronary artery disease, with a follow-up period of around six years. The findings showed that each additional year of smoking increased the risk of a major cardiovascular event by 8%, while quitting smoking at any time after diagnosis significantly reduced this risk. Notably, those who reduced their smoking without quitting entirely did not experience a meaningful reduction in risk, highlighting that there is no safe level of smoking.
Experts emphasize that quitting smoking should be a priority in medical consultations, and that quitting, rather than reducing, smoking is essential for lowering cardiovascular risk. The study also noted that even after quitting, former smokers do not return to the same low cardiovascular risk level as those who have never smoked, highlighting the lasting impact of smoking on heart health.
Health professionals recommend comprehensive smoking cessation strategies, including advice, counseling, and pharmacological support, to help individuals quit successfully. The message is clear: quitting smoking is one of the most critical steps to reducing the risk of heart attacks and improving overall heart health.
