Dr Grant strongly emphasizes the negative impact of cigarettes on health. From heart and lung diseases to various types of cancers, cigarettes are directly responsible for numerous adverse conditions. The effects of smoking are not limited to physical health, but also include premature aging of the skin, unpleasant odors on clothes and breath, and financial strain.
Furthermore, Dr Grant highlights the global economic burden caused by smoking-related healthcare costs. Therefore, anyone considering quitting smoking should be applauded, regardless of their level of success. The addictive nature of nicotine in cigarettes makes it challenging to quit, and many individuals attempt to quit multiple times before achieving long-term success.
Dr Grant emphasizes the importance of having a strong desire and self-belief in order to quit smoking successfully. Individuals who do not believe they can quit or remain in the contemplative stage are unlikely to achieve success. The process of quitting smoking is typically divided into five stages: pre-contemplative, contemplative, preparation, action, and maintenance.
Dr Grant acknowledges that slips or relapses may occur during the quitting process. However, it is important to remain positive and return to the action and maintenance phases to continue progress towards quitting smoking.
While many former smokers have successfully quit “cold turkey,” Dr Grant believes it to be the most effective method. However, there are aids such as nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) that can assist with cravings. Quitting smoking “cold turkey” requires a full commitment, but the satisfaction and sense of accomplishment are immense.
Dr Grant discusses the challenges associated with the idea of gradual reduction to quit smoking. While it may help reduce daily cigarette consumption, it is often less successful in achieving complete cessation. Continuing to smoke occasionally increases the likelihood of relapse.
Dr Grant acknowledges that reducing cigarette consumption is a step in the right direction, but the adverse effects of smoking are dose-dependent. Therefore, the ultimate goal should always be to completely quit smoking.
Dr Grant encourages individuals to maintain their efforts to quit, even in the face of occasional slips. The ultimate goal should always be complete cessation of smoking.
Dr Jennifer Grant is a GP with Beacon HealthCheck.
For more advice and support on quitting smoking, please visit hse.ie/quit/now.
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