Researchers at the University of Toronto discovered that quitting smoking before age 40 nearly restores life expectancy to that of nonsmokers. The study, published in NEJM Evidence, documented that within 10 years of quitting, former smokers approached the survival rates of never smokers, with significant benefits seen within the first three years.

The research included 1.5 million adults and indicated that smokers aged 40-79 are three times likelier to die prematurely, losing approximately 12-13 years of life.

Quitting smoking not only increases life expectancy but also reduces the risk of death from vascular diseases, cancer, and to a lesser extent, respiratory diseases. The study's findings underscore the urgency for governments to enhance support for smoking cessation through measures like higher cigarette taxes and comprehensive patient support systems.