Smoking and brain health

Smoking increases the risk of dementia which is a decline in mental ability and includes Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia. The good news is that quitting smoking at any age reduces the risk of dementia, even if you’ve smoked for many years.

By stopping smoking with our support, you can help protect your memory, your independence and your future.

Why brain health matters

Dementia affects how we think, remember, plan and communicate. It’s s the most feared health condition for people over the age of 55. So, more than any other life-threatening disease, including cancer and diabetes.

Dementia isn’t a normal part of getting older. Alzheimer’s Research UK says up to 40% of cases could be delayed or prevented by dealing with key risk factors. And smoking is one of the biggest ones to tackle.

NHS Every Mind Matters says that looking after your brain helps your overall wellbeing, keeps your thinking clear and improves your quality of life in the long run.

Quitting smoking is one of the best steps you can take to support a healthier brain. We can help you succeed in a way that works for you.

How smoking affects the brain

Smoking harms the brain in several ways:

• Damages blood vessels, reducing oxygen and nutrients reaching the brain
• Increases inflammation, which accelerates brain ageing
• Raises the risk of stroke, a major cause of vascular dementia
• Speeds up cognitive decline, affecting memory and concentration

Is it too late to quit?

Over time, these changes increase the risk of dementia. But the brain is resilient. When you stop smoking, blood flow improves, inflammation reduces and your dementia risk begins to fall.