Heart Health Leadership Manual

Smoking is the most preventable risk factor for Heart Disease. There is no middle ground with smoking, the only answer is to be a non- smoker.

Giving up cigarettes is a frightening thought for many smokers. Non-smokers. who have never picked up the habit, find this hard to understand. We must all recognize that quitting cigarettes takes courage, conviction, and untold amounts of family patience and support. Quitting is a process, which can take longer for some people than it does for others. Smokers may quit many times before they quit successfully. Relapse should not be seen as failure.

There are a number of different approaches to "breaking free". Here are some of the most popular:

Cold Turkey: Some people find they can just quit. Since motivation is a key factor in any smoke cessation program, the truly dedicated quitter may find it possible to stop smoking successfully without any assistance. However, "Cold Turkey" is not for everyone. Withdrawal symptoms can be severe; many people need support and, possibly, nicotine replacement therapy.

Group Support: Getting together with people who are going through the quitting process helps many smokers adjust to the reality of life without smoking. For people who do not get the support they need at home, and for those who must live with smokers while they are trying to quit, group support may be essential. Anyone can start a group, anywhere.

Nicotine Replacement Therapy: There are two types of nicotine replacement therapy. The most popular is the nicotine patch. The patch helps the quitting process by replacing nicotine, and thus easing the physical withdrawal symptoms. Once the ex-smoker is comfortable with the adjustment, they gradually stop using the patch. The "patch" works best for highly committed quitters, and in combination with family or group support. The "patch" is available only by prescription from a physician.

Nicotine can also be replaced with nicotine gum, now available over the counter at most pharmacies. Like the patch, nicotine gum helps relieve the physical symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. IT IS DANGEROUS TO SMOKE WHEN USING EITHER A NICOTINE REPLACEMENT PATCH, OR NICOTINE GUM. SMOKERS USING EITHER METHOD SHOULD CONSULT WITH THEIR PHYSICIAN AND FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY.

There are many things to consider when choosing a program to help you quit smoking. Use the following as a guide to deciding which option is best for you:

Does the "quit smoking" program ...

... stress the Importance of your personal commitment to quitting? there are no "quick fixes" ... beware of products that offer pain- free quitting

... fit your budget? if you cannot afford it, you will not keep it up

... increase your own ability to avoid smoking? a good program should help you deal with stress, withdrawal symptoms, weight control, and relapses

... have trained staff, and the approval of your family physician? if the program has staff, make sure they are qualified professionals; talk to your doctor or public health nurse

... fit your work and family schedule? if you do not have time, you won't go

... encourage support from family or support groups?

... have a good reputation? check with your doctor, public health nurse, the Lung Association Canadian Cancer Society, Newfoundland and Labrador Cancer Treatment and Research Foundation or the Heart and Stroke Foundation

... offer long-term support and follow-up?

(adapted from Health and Welfare's Guide to Quitting Smoking)