Quitting smoking significantly reduces the risk of atrial fibrillation, study finds

Quitting smoking offers almost immediate health benefits, including a significant reduction in the risk of atrial fibrillation, a new study reveals. Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, led by cardiologist Dr. Gregory Marcus, published their findings in the Sept. 11 issue of JACC: Clinical Electrophysiology.

Atrial fibrillation is a condition in which the upper chambers of the heart, known as the atria, beat irregularly, causing blood to pool and potentially form clots. These clots increase the risk of stroke, making atrial fibrillation a serious cardiovascular problem. While smoking has long been associated with an increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation, the study aimed to determine whether quitting smoking could reverse this risk.

Marcus highlighted the importance of the findings for current smokers, saying: “The findings provide a compelling reason to show current smokers that it is not too late to quit smoking and that having smoked in the past does not mean one is ‘destined’ to develop atrial fibrillation.” Even for long-term smokers, he added, quitting smoking could help stave off the condition.

The research team analyzed health data from the UK Biobank, a large database containing information on more than 146,700 current and former smokers. Participants’ smoking habits and health were tracked for 12 years to assess how smoking influenced their risk of developing atrial fibrillation. The results were promising: individuals who had quit smoking had a higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation than those who had quit smoking. quit smoking Before the study began, smokers had a 13 percent lower risk of developing atrial fibrillation compared with those who continued to smoke. For smokers who quit during the study period, the risk of developing atrial fibrillation was reduced by 18 percent compared with regular smokers.

“This reduction is likely a testament to the potency of atrial fibrillation risk reduction soon after quitting smoking,” Marcus said in an American College of Cardiology news release. The study highlights how quickly the heart can begin to recover once a person quits smoking, offering hope to those concerned about the long-term health effects of their smoking history.

Effective ways to quit smoking

Quitting smoking can be challenging, but with the right strategies and support, it is possible. Here are some effective ways to quit smoking:

Create a plan to quit smoking

– Set a quit date and prepare for it by identifying your triggers and challenges.

– Establish a plan to deal with cravings and stressful situations.

Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)

– Use nicotine patches, gum or lozenges to reduce withdrawal symptoms.

– NRT helps control nicotine cravings gradually.

Prescription drugs

– Talk to a doctor about prescription medications such as varenicline (Chantix) or bupropion (Zyban), which can reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

Behavioral therapy

– Seek counseling or therapy to address the emotional and psychological aspects of quitting smoking.

– Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help change smoking habits.

Support groups

– Join support groups, either in person or online, to share experiences and receive encouragement.

– Programs such as Nicotine Anonymous or online forums can offer valuable support.

Avoid triggers

– Identify situations, people or activities that make you want to smoke and avoid them.

– Keep your hands and mouth busy with alternatives like gum or stress balls.

Stay active

– Engage in physical activities such as walking, biking, or yoga to reduce cravings and manage stress.

– Exercise releases endorphins, which can help curb the urge to smoke.

Healthy diet and hydration

– Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables to cleanse your system and curb cravings.

– Drinking plenty of water can help flush nicotine out of your body.

Track your progress

– Keep a journal to track your smoking habits and your achievements.

– Celebrate milestones like a week or a month without smoking to stay motivated.

Stay persistent

– Quitting smoking is a process and setbacks can happen. If you slip up, recommit to your goal and keep trying.

– Reward yourself for progress to reinforce your motivation.