The reason most people get addicted to smoking is a chemical called nicotine that is found in tobacco. Any form of tobacco use (chewable or smoking) is harmful to health. 70% of people try to quit smoking, but only 3% can quit just like that. Others struggle because of the addictive nicotine. Nicotine is 1000 times more addictive than cocaine!

How to quit smoking?

  1. Select a quit date: 1-2 Weeks away for getting ready to stop. Reduce the number of cigarettes day by day.
  2. Make a list of reasons why you want to quit.
  3. Keep a track on where, when and why you smoke (association with tea, lunch etc)
  4. You can use nicotine supplements (gums, pastilles) to replace cigarette.
  5. Course of medications are available to help you quit  (they prevent withdrawal symptoms, makes quitting smoother and easier).
  6. Get the benefits of health within 24hrs of quitting.

Benefits of quitting:

  • Within 20min your heart rate begins to normalize
  • Carbon monoxide levels drop to zero within 12hrs
  • 2-3 weeks, blood circulation and lung functioning will improve
  • In one year risk of heart disease reduces by 50%.

Quitting smoking is a process, it takes time and you might require continuous support and monitoring .You will also benefit from the behavioral counseling. Seek professional help if necessary.