Employee Factsheet: Stop Smoking!

Time since quitting

Beneficial health changes that take place

20 minutes

Blood pressure and pulse rate return to normal.

8 hours

Nicotine and carbon monoxide levels in blood reduce by half and oxygen levels return to normal.

24 hours

Carbon monoxide will be eliminated from the body.

Lungs start to clear out mucus and other smoking debris.

48 hours

There is no nicotine left in the body.

Ability to taste and smell is greatly improved.

72 hours

Breathing becomes easier.

Bronchial tubes begin to relax and energy levels increase.

2–12 weeks

Circulation improves.

3–9 months

Coughs, wheezing and breathing problems improve as lung function is increased by up to 10%.

1 year