As a public health expert, I've dedicated my career to understanding the impact of lifestyle choices on health outcomes, particularly the effects of smoking on longevity. It's well established that smoking is one of the leading preventable causes of death worldwide. The question of how much longer non-smokers live compared to smokers is a complex one, influenced by a multitude of factors including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental conditions. However, we can draw some general conclusions based on extensive research.

Firstly, the statement that non-smokers on average live about 10 years longer than smokers is a broad estimate that has been supported by numerous studies. This figure can vary depending on the population being studied and the specific smoking habits of individuals. For example, a study published in the journal "The Lancet" found that smoking reduces life expectancy by an average of 10 years, but this reduction can be as high as 20 years for heavy smokers.

The UK statistics you mentioned are quite illustrative. They highlight a stark contrast in life expectancy between non-smokers and long-term smokers. The fact that about 80% of non-smokers live past the age of 70, compared to only about 50% of long-term smokers, underscores the significant impact that smoking has on reducing life expectancy.

It's important to note that smoking affects not only the smoker but also those around them. Secondhand smoke is a major health hazard, contributing to a range of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. This means that the impact of smoking extends beyond the individual smoker and has broader public health implications.

Moreover, the health risks associated with smoking are not limited to lung cancer, which is often the first disease that comes to mind. Smoking is also a leading cause of other cancers, heart disease, stroke, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The cumulative effect of these diseases can lead to a reduced quality of life and a shorter lifespan.

However, it's crucial to emphasize that quitting smoking can have immediate and long-term health benefits. Even long-term smokers who quit can significantly reduce their risk of smoking-related diseases and increase their life expectancy. The sooner one quits, the better the health outcomes are likely to be.

In conclusion, while the exact number of years that non-smokers live longer than smokers can vary, the evidence is clear that smoking significantly reduces life expectancy and contributes to a range of serious health conditions. Public health initiatives aimed at smoking cessation and prevention are vital to improving overall health and life expectancy.

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If you are a long-term smoker, on average, your life expectancy is about 10 years less than a non-smoker. Put another way, in the UK about 8 in 10 non-smokers live past the age of 70 but only about half of long-term smokers live past 70.Nov 9, 2017read more >>