Poor health choices have impact by the age of 36

THE effects of smoking, drinking too much and not exercising enough are felt by the age of 36, researchers have warned.

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Stopping these behaviours early in adulthood and midlife can prevent years of subsequent ill health, according to the study, which tracked people for more than 30 years.

Smoking causes lung cancer and heart and breathing problems, while a lack of exercise and too much alcohol are linked to issues such as cancer, stroke, heart attacks and early death.