The importance of quitting smoking

Although awareness of the health dangers of smoking has increased in recent years, tobacco remains a major public health problem.

In Spain, 19.7% of the population aged 15 years or older smokes cigarettes daily, a figure that is above the European average of 18.4% (Eurostat data from 2019).

Quitting smoking can mean an increase of up to ten years in life expectancy. It is estimated that approximately 70% of smokers want to quit and many try, although many find it difficult.

Different methods to quit smoking

There are various methods that have proven effective in quitting the habit:

Medicines

There are different medications that can help you quit smoking, including:

– Nicotine replacement therapy: It consists of administering small doses of nicotine without toxic tobacco products, to relieve withdrawal syndrome.

– Bupropion: It is an antidepressant that reduces withdrawal symptoms.

– Varenicline: Reduces withdrawal symptoms and reduces the rewarding effects of smoking.

Behavioral support

Behavioral support is essential to quit smoking. It may include counseling and psychological support throughout the quitting process. There are different systems, from individual or group sessions, to free telephone support lines, text messages or internet-based programs.

Combine different methods

A recent study has shown that combining medication and behavioral support increases success rates in quitting smoking. The combination of medication and behavioral support is associated with a dropout rate of 15.2% over 6 months, while the dropout rate is 8.6% if behavioral support is brief or usual care is followed.

Importantly, getting the support and encouragement of a counselor along the way can be very valuable for people trying to quit smoking.

Conclusion

Quitting smoking is challenging, but it is possible with the right methods. Medications and behavioral support are effective tools to help people quit. Combining different methods can increase the chances of success. If you are thinking about quitting smoking, consider seeking professional help and taking advantage of available resources.

Introduction

If you’re looking to quit smoking, you’ve probably wondered what the best approach is to do it. In this article, we will explore different methods and strategies that can help you quit smoking effectively and lastingly. Throughout the text, we will address the benefits and considerations of each approach, as well as practical tips to maximize your chances of success.

1. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)

Nicotine replacement therapy is a commonly used method of quitting smoking. It consists of the use of patches, gum, inhalers or other devices that administer nicotine to the body, but without the presence of other toxic substances present in tobacco smoke. NRT helps reduce withdrawal symptoms, making the process of quitting smoking easier. It is important to follow medical instructions to use NRT correctly and obtain the best results.

2. Prescription medications

There are prescription medications that can help you quit smoking, such as bupropion and varenicline. These medications act on the nervous system to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It is important to consult a health professional before starting the use of these medications, as they may have side effects and contraindications that must be evaluated individually.

3. Psychological support and behavioral therapy

Psychological support and behavioral therapy are essential to quit smoking. These methods focus on modifying patterns of behavior and thinking related to smoking, identifying triggers, and developing strategies to deal with risk situations. Behavioral therapy, in combination with other methods such as NRT or prescription medications, has been shown to be effective in increasing smoking cessation success rates.

4. Lifestyle changes

Making lifestyle changes can be a big help in quitting smoking. Incorporating healthy habits such as physical exercise, a balanced diet, stress management and the search for activities that generate emotional well-being can facilitate the process of quitting tobacco. These changes not only help reduce withdrawal symptoms, but also promote overall health and well-being.

5. Gradual approach

Some people choose a gradual approach to quitting smoking, progressively reducing the number of cigarettes they consume daily. This method can be effective for those who do not want or cannot use other methods such as NRT or prescription medications. However, it is important to establish a clear plan and follow it with discipline to achieve the goal of quitting smoking permanently.

6. Additional resources

In addition to the approaches mentioned above, there are other resources that may be helpful in quitting smoking. Some people find benefits in acupuncture, hypnosis, and motivation and support programs. These resources can complement other methods and provide additional support in the tobacco cessation process. It is important to explore different options and find the combination of approaches that works best for each individual.

Conclusion

Quitting smoking is a challenge, but with the right approach and support, it is possible. Each person is unique, so it is important to find the method or combination of methods that best suits their needs and preferences. Whether through NRT, prescription medications, psychological support, lifestyle changes, or other resources, the important thing is to take the first step and commit to the process of quitting smoking. Remember that every try counts and that the support of health professionals, family and friends can make the difference on the path to a smoke-free life.