Smoking and Lung Function
Life-long smokers often ask their doctors if it is worthwhile quitting at an older age and if it will really make a difference in their lung function and overall survival.
In fact, it does make a difference! We all loose lung function as we age and smokers can loose lung function more quickly. When smokers stop, the rate of deterioration goes back to the normal rate. [2] [3]
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2. Fletcher C, Peto R. The natural history of chronic airflow obstruction. BMJ 1977;1(6077):1645-8.
3. Anthonisen NR, Skeans MA, Wise RA, Manfreda J, Kanner RE, Connett JE; Lung Health Study Research Group. The effects of a smoking cessation intervention on 14.5-year mortality: a randomized clinical trial. Ann Intern Med. 2005;142(4):233-9.
