How to Quit Smoking and Why

According to the American Cancer Society, 142,670 Americans are expected to die of lung cancer this year. To put it in perspective, it’s as if the entire population of Dayton, Ohio, died in one year.

Smoking is the main cause of lung cancer, says Martin Gutierrez, M.D., chief medical oncologist of the thoracic division at John Theurer Cancer Center part of Hackensack University Medical Center. “There are all sorts of carcinogens in smoke, and because you inhale, the smoke is direct contact with lung tissue,” he says.

While it can take 20 to 30 years to develop lung cancer, the sooner you quit smoking, the better your chances are of avoiding it.

People who think they’ll be safe by smoking marijuana, electronic cigarettes or other non-tobacco products may be in for a surprise in later years. Dr. Gutierrez says that no one knows the long-term effects of the electronic cigarettes, and there aren’t any statistics about marijuana and lung cancer. He adds about smoking them, “I can’t imagine there isn’t a risk of carcinogens.”

Tips for Quitting Smoking

So how to quit? Dr. Gutierrez says, “It’s incredibly difficult to quit. Smoking is so addictive.” Some of his patients have had varying amounts of success with going cold turkey, while others have used pharmaceutical methods (like patches) and acupuncture. Here are methods some people have used and how they work:

• Cold turkey: This is often the fastest way to quit, but it’s not easy. Pick a date in the near future when you aren’t likely to be under a lot of stress, and mentally prepare. Have friends and family supporting you. After the first two or three days, your withdrawal symptoms likely will start to decrease.
• Pharmaceuticals: Your personal physician can work with you to find the best products for your personal health and lifestyle.
• Classes: Smoking Cessation classes are the right choice for many people no matter what method they choose to help them quit smoking. In the classes, you’ll learn medical facts about what is happening to your body, tips on how other people have quit, how to identify and deal with triggers that make you want to smoke, and very importantly, you’ll have the support of others in your class who are dealing with the same thing you’re going through.

For everyone, while you are quitting, try to avoid situations where you smoked before. For instance, if you smoke while watching television, take a walk or read a book to distract you until the cravings are less. Spend your free time at places where smoking isn’t allowed like shopping centers, movies and smoke-free restaurants. Spend time with family and friends who support you and will help if you get irritable or moody.

And be good to yourself. The health benefits of not smoking will start quickly and you’ll be amazed at how much more energy you have!

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.