Medical information for patients

Stop smoking

Stopping smoking is no easy task for those of us who are addicted to the habit. There are however overwhelming health reasons for stopping, even if you are elderly.

Why I should stop

Smoking is the thing most likely to increase your chances of having a stroke (Cerebro Vascular Accident, CVA) or heart attack (Myocardial Infarction, MI), and these are the major causes of death in developed countries. In addition it is associated with an increased risk of lung disease, including chronic bronchitis and lung cancer.

Smoking increases the risk of getting many other cancers, and is associated with more likelihood of getting back pain and osteoporosis.

Smoking is bad for the unborn child, being associated with low birth weight, which can cause problems for the new-born, and increases the risks of cot death.

Children living in smoking households are more likely to suffer from respiratory infections than those in non-smoking houses, and much has already been made of the increased risks of most of the above conditions for people inhaling other people's smoke.

Preparation

You will only succeed in stopping smoking if you have really set your mind on it, and are committed to it. You can not merely use this or that method prescribed, sold or administered to you by someone else, without the additional constituent of determination.

Treatment

You may well be able to stop on your own, but there are one or two approaches that can help:

Further information

Books

7 steps to a smoke free life, by American Lung Association
Also available on tape.

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