The American Lung Association of the Mid-Atlantic wishes everyone a Happy New Year.

As we rang in 2013, many of us made New Year's resolutions to improve our health and well-being. People who resolve to quit smoking have the chance to increase the length and quality of their lives.

Quitting works its magic the minute an individual makes the choice.

In just 12 hours after an individual quits, the carbon monoxide level in their blood drops to normal. Fast forward to a year after quitting, and the risk of coronary heart disease is half that of a smoker's.

Today, smoking has become increasingly expensive, with cigarette packs costing up to $10 in some areas. A $5 pack per day adds up to $1,825 per year. Quitters save their lives and can save money for the future.

Quitting not only helps you, but also the loved ones and friends around you. Secondhand smoke affects everyone, and is especially dangerous to young children.

If your New Year's resolutions include quitting smoking, visit the How to Quit resource on our website. For facts on smoking and more ways to stop it, visit the Stop Smoking page at http://www.lung.org/stop-smoking/how-to-quit/.

Deb Brown

president and CEO, American Lung Association of the Mid-Atlantic

610-563-6992

dbrown@lunginfo.org