By LAUREN PARKES
It is no secret that smoking is bad for us.
We’ve seen the commercials, heard the facts and some of us have even witnessed those we love struggle with their health because of smoking. However, there are some things maybe you didn’t know – like the fact that cigarette smoking is the leading cause of preventable disease and death in the United States, accounting for more than 480,000 deaths every year or that every cigarette you smoke reduces your life expectancy by 11 minutes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Just as we know smoking is bad for us, we also know that it’s a hard habit to get rid of. For some people, using any amount of tobacco can quickly lead to nicotine dependence. Even after many attempts to quit, tobacco cravings or urges to smoke can be too powerful and result in a failed attempt to quit.
Though quitting isn’t easy, here are a few reminders and tips to keep in mind when trying to quit:
Wait. Although the urge for nicotine may be intense, it will probably pass within five to 10 minutes, whether or not you smoke a cigarette or take a dip of chewing tobacco, say experts at Mayo Clinic.
Avoid triggers. Cravings or urges to use tobacco are likely to be strongest in the situations where you frequently smoked. Identify your trigger situations and have a plan in place to avoid them.
Find support. Social support, such as family, friends or formal support groups, can help to increase your chance for success. It’s often a good idea to request social support from family, friends and co-workers to ensure you are accountable to your action plan.
If you or someone you know is interested in quitting, Tools to Quit, a program developed by the Florida Area Health Education Center Network, offers free resources and services to help you get started. The program is held the second Thursday of each month from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Lakeland Regional Health Hollis Cancer Center, 3525 Lakeland Hills Blvd. To register or for more information, call 877.252.6094.
About the Author
Lauren Parkes is Manager of Community Health Outreach for Lakeland Regional Health.