Smokers who quit are more satisfied and feel healthier than those who continue to smoke both one and three years after quitting, according to study, published in Springer's journal Annals of Behavioral Medicine.

Researchers found noticeable improvements among smokers that quit, looking at positive and negative emotions after quitting among 1,504 regular smokers taking part in a smoking cessation trial.

Long-term quitters scored higher on overall quality of life, health-related quality, positive emotions and had fewer stressors than those who continue to smoke.

Quality of life measurements included: health, work, recreation, community, neighborhood, romantic, social and family relationships.

Researchers pointed out that many smokers believe that if they stop smoking it will disrupt routines, interfere with relationships, and lead to loss of smoking-related pleasure.

"This research provides substantial evidence that quitting smoking benefits well-being compared to continuing smoking," said Dr. Megan Piper, from the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health in the US.

Our findings suggest that, over the long-term, individuals will be happier and more satisfied with their lives if they stop smoking than if they do not," concluded Piper.