People who smoke are nearly three times as likely to die prematurely from heart disease than non-smokers.
According to UPI, the risk is even higher for those who began smoking during childhood.
Smokers who quit between ages 15 and 34 had about the same risk for dying from heart disease or a stroke as non-smokers.
People who kicked the habit between ages 35 and 44 had about a 20% higher risk.
However, people who quit between ages 45 and 64 were up to 70% more likely to die from heart disease or stroke.