Kicking the habit is made more difficult by the physical addiction to nicotine (the chemical stimulant in tobacco). Nicotine is a highly addictive drug that causes strong physical cravings and withdrawal symptoms like other drugs that stimulate the nervous system. Fortunately, medical treatments are now available that can help you control the withdrawal symptoms and cravings.

There are also psychological and behavioral factors that make it more difficult to stop smoking. You may smoke when you become nervous, when you drink alcohol, or when you're on the phone, for example. Your doctor can help you successfully quit smoking by treating your addiction to nicotine and by giving you information on how to change your behavior.

If you are ready to quit, talk to your physician. He or she can help you choose the best method of quitting for you. An article in the September 1, 1999, issue of The Journal of the American Medical Association (Ferry et al) stresses the importance of smoking cessation (ways to stop smoking) as part of training for medical students.

Why You Should Quit:

More than 40 chemicals in tobacco smoke have been identified to cause cancer. Smoking also damages your lungs and other parts of your respiratory system, raises your blood pressure and robs your body of oxygen, just to name a few of its harmful effects.

Set Yourself Up For Success:

The most important factors for success are being strongly motivated to quit and making a firm commitment to quit.

To Increase Your Chances of Success:

• Get help from your doctor (he or she can help you choose an effective method or combination of methods to make quitting easier.)

   

• Set a firm date to quit

   

• Start to cut back before your quit day

   

• Let friends and family know you are quitting (this will provide motivation for you and allow them the opportunity to give you emotional support.)

   

• Have realistic expectations (you should realize quitting won't be easy and that you may have some temporary setbacks.)

   

• Change your habits to avoid situations that trigger tobacco use (For example, drink less alcohol and coffee, avoid other smokers, and avoid situations and places where you are likely to smoke.)

   

• Join a support group of ex-smokers

For More Information:

• National Cancer Institute
  Clearing the Air: How to Quit Smoking and Quit for Keeps
  (800) 4-CANCER
  (800) 332-8615 (TTY)

   

• American Lung Association
  Freedom From Smoking
  (800) LUNG-USA

Additional Sources: AMA's Family Medical Guide, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Brian Pace, M.A., Writer
Richard M. Glass, M.D., Editor
Jeff Molter, Director of Science News

(JAMA. 1999; 282:914)

Published in JAMA: September 1, 1999