Win a book to help quit smoking easily

Smokers know the consequences of the habit, but put off stopping.

Try again this World No Tobacco Day and start a new life of freedom and health. The body responds quickly: Immediately after finishing a cigarette, blood pressure returns to normal. In 20 minutes heart rate drops to normal. After 12 hours the body has removed the excess carbon monoxide and increased oxygen levels.

One day after quitting the risk of heart attack begins to decrease. Two days after quitting, there is heightened sense of smell and stronger taste as these nerves heal. Three days after quitting, nicotine levels are depleted. In one month, lung function begins to improve. Coughing and shortness of breath lessens and circulation continues to improve.

Nine months after quitting, the lungs have significantly healed. After one year, the risk of coronary heart disease halves.

After five years, the arteries and blood vessels begin to widen again so the blood is less likely to clot, lowering the risk of stroke. After 10 years, the chance of developing lung cancer and dying is halved compared with a smoker. Fi een lucky readers will each win a book, ‘Here‘s How to Quit Smoking’, by Michael (UN) Hook. To enter, SMS the keyword QUIT followed by your full name, date of birth and e-mail address to 33521. Competition closes on Monday, June 4, at midnight. SMSes are charged at R1.50 each and errors will be billed. Free and bundle SMSes do not apply. This competition will run in print only. All entries will go into a random draw. Ts&Cs apply.