Smoking shortens lives

Unless they quit, up to half of all smokers will die from smoking-related illnesses. Most smokers die about 10 years earlier than someone who has never smoked.

Did you know?

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in Canada. About 72% of lung cancer cases in Canada are due to smoking tobacco.​

Smokers are about 20 times more likely to develop lung cancer than non-smokers. The longer a person smokes and the more cigarettes they smoke each day, the more their risk increases. Smokers are also at a higher risk if they’re exposed to radon or certain chemicals in their home or workplace and continue to smoke.

Tobacco use is the number 1 cause of preventable disease and death in Canada. Find out about our advocacy work in tobacco control.

Explore related articles

6 great benefits of quitting smoking (you’ll love number 2!)

Amazing ways your body bounces back – from the minute you stop smoking

Every cigarette you smoke can take years off your life. It’s never too late to quit. (video)

Continue reading