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Smokers who quit on New Year’s Day could gain back up to 50 days of their life by the end of 2025, according to a new study from University College London.
The research, released Monday, reveals that each cigarette smoked shortens a smoker’s life by an average of 20 minutes, but quitting smoking on January 1 could quickly reverse some of the damage.
By January 8, smokers could save a full day, with the potential to reclaim a week by February 20.
With over half of smokers planning to quit in the new year, health experts are urging individuals to use this opportunity to break free from addiction and improve their health.
A research study commissioned by the Department of Health and Social Care reveals that quitting smoking on New Year’s Day could lead to a remarkable 50 extra days of life by the end of 2025.
The study, which underscores the health benefits of quitting smoking, emphasises the significant impact this decision can have on a person’s longevity.
The findings of this research, conducted by the department, were released on Monday and are available on the UK government website, as reported by PUNCH Online.
With over half of smokers (53 per cent) planning to quit as their 2025 New Year’s resolution, the research comes at a pivotal moment.
Expert Opinions, Govt Initiatives
Health experts are urging smokers to seize the opportunity this New Year to break free from their addiction, emphasising that quitting could not only improve health but also add valuable time back to their lives.
Public Health Minister Andrew Gwynne stressed the importance of quitting: “Smoking is an expensive and deadly habit. These findings lay bare the harsh reality of addiction and the immediate benefits of quitting. The New Year offers the perfect chance for smokers to take that first step toward a healthier life.”
The study highlights that by choosing to quit on January 1, smokers could regain a full day of their lives by January 8.
A picture taken on August 21, 2018 in Neuchatel, at the research and development campus of cigarette and tobacco manufacturing company Philip Morris International shows an iQOS electronic cigarette, which heats tobacco sticks but does not burn them. AFP
By February 20, they could save an entire week, and by the end of the year, they could avoid losing up to 50 days—a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of smoking.
“Stopping smoking is one of the best things you can do to improve both your present and future health,” said Dr. Jeanelle de Gruchy, Deputy Chief Medical Officer.
“This New Year, leave smoking behind and take control of your health. The benefits start almost immediately.”
The research is part of the government’s broader efforts to combat smoking, which remains the leading preventable cause of death in the UK. Smoking kills 80,000 people annually and accounts for one in four cancer deaths in England.
Resources, Support for Smokers
The government’s Tobacco and Vapes Bill, aimed at creating the first smoke-free generation, includes provisions to phase out tobacco sales for those born after January 1, 2009, and extend smoking bans to outdoor areas such as playgrounds and school grounds.
Sarah Jackson, Principal Research Fellow at UCL, added: “The sooner someone stops smoking, the longer they live. Quitting at any age can dramatically improve your health, and the benefits begin almost immediately. It’s never too late to make a positive change.”
Ex-smoker Kamran, who quit smoking as part of his 2024 New Year’s resolution, shared his story: “I didn’t realise how much smoking had impacted my health until I quit. I couldn’t keep up with my kids, and I felt short of breath.
“With support, I’ve managed to quit, and now I’m healthier, less stressed, and more active in my family’s life.”
The NHS offers a variety of free resources to help smokers quit, including the NHS Quit Smoking app and local stop-smoking services.
The government has also committed an additional £70 million for stop-smoking services in 2025/26 and introduced Varenicline, a new pill to support smokers in their quit journey.
Professor Sanjay Agrawal, NHS England’s national advisor for tobacco dependency, emphasised, “Giving up smoking is one of the best things someone can do for their health. With the right support, quitting is easier than ever, and the benefits are clear.”
