A recent study has revealed that people with coronary artery disease can significantly lower their risk of heart attack by quitting smoking. The research, based on data from the international CLARIFY registry, found that quitting smoking can reduce this risk by up to 44%. This is a significant improvement compared to continuing to smoke, which can increase the risk of heart attack by 8% for each additional year of smoking. The study provides strong evidence for the link between smoking and heart attack risk. It reinforces the message that there is no safe level of smoking and that quitting is essential for protecting cardiovascular health. The findings are particularly important for people with coronary artery disease, as quitting smoking can significantly reduce their risk of future heart attacks. The findings of this study were presented at the ESC Congress 2024 and are based on data from the international CLARIFY registry. The study examined 32,378 people with coronary artery disease and followed them for an average of six years. The participants were categorized into three groups: never-smokers, former smokers, and current smokers.Dangers of Continued SmokingThe study also highlighted the dangers of continued smoking. Even reducing the amount smoked does not significantly lower the risk compared to continuing to smoke. In fact, the study found that former smokers who have quit for years still have a lower overall risk of heart attack than those who continue to smoke. This underscores the importance of complete cessation of smoking for optimal cardiovascular health. Importance of Quitting SmokingExperts emphasize that the key to reducing heart attack risk lies in the complete cessation of smoking. There is no safe level of smoking, and even occasional or light smoking can increase the risk of heart attack. The study found that former smokers who quit for years still have a lower overall risk of heart attack than those who continue to smoke. This highlights the importance of quitting smoking as soon as possible.Health Risks of SmokingThe study highlights the serious health consequences of smoking, particularly for those with coronary artery disease. Smoking can damage the coronary arteries, increase the risk of blood clots, and accelerate the development of atherosclerosis. These factors can all contribute to a higher risk of heart attack. Importance of QuittingExperts advise people both with and without coronary artery disease to quit smoking as soon as possible. There are various strategies to help people quit, including counselling, behavioural interventions, and pharmacological therapy. Talking with a healthcare professional can be an important step in the quitting process.