Beating the Habit
The evidence against smoking tobacco is overwhelming, the addictive quality undeniable, and the necessity to quit absolute. Being human means that despite knowing what is bad for us, we don’t always have the strength or willpower to overcome our vices.
There have been numerous international studies examining the various methods used to quit smoking, and their success or failure rates.
This medical literature concluded:
- There is a much less chance of initiating smoking as an adult for those who do not smoke before the age of 20; therefore, targeting teenage smoking prevention is essential.
- Current anti-smoking education programmes aren’t particularly effective on teenagers. (Perhaps the high cost and soon to be, even higher cost of cigarettes, will act as a deterrent.)
- Reducing the number of cigarettes smoked over time with the goal of eventual abstinence or stopping ‘cold-turkey’ is equally effective.
- Nicotine replacement therapy in any form (patches, gum, lozenges) may help smokers quit by up to 70 per cent.
- Prescribed medications used appropriately are safe and give the user a two to three times better chance of quitting, so speak to your doctor about whether these are suitable for you.
All studies show a failure rate which varied depending on methodology used. Therefore, in the war against our habit we need to make a solid commitment to quitting completely and absolutely, with no halfway measures being suitable.
Cutting down is certainly helpful, but damage will unfortunately still continue to progressively plague your organs with each and every extra cigarette smoked.
The route to quitting
- A true commitment to quit.
- Deciding on whether you are using a gradual cutting down or “cold-turkey” method. (Perhaps the one that worked best for you in the past)
- Using available over-the-counter nicotine replacement therapies. Try as many as you need and find the one that suits you the best.
- Speak to your doctor about the available anti-smoking medications and what may be appropriate for you.
Stay positive and committed, regardless of how many attempts you need. A world of fresh air and healthy living for you and your loved ones is well within your reach.
