Smoking

 
Smoking is a heart disease risk factor that can be changed!
 
Why quit smoking?
Quitting smoking is the #1 most important factor in reducing heart disease. Cigarette smoke damages blood cells in the artery walls and increases the risk of clots. Smoking also contributes to the narrowing of the arteries, known as atherosclerosis. This reduces the amount of oxygen that is delivered and weakens arteries.
To see how else smoking affects your body click here.
 
The effects of quitting smoking are instant e.g. two years following quitting your risk of a heart attack compared to someone still smoking is reduced by 50%. Smoking increases your risk of not only heart disease but cancer and stroke. Smoking not only affects you, but also those around you from second-hand smoking.
 
 
                      
 
How to quit
Quitting can be difficult but is absolutely worthwhile. There are numerous strategies and services to assist in making quitting easier.
 
Methods to quitting
  • Call the Quitline on 13 78 48.
    • Available Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm.
    • Experienced professionals trained to help you quit.
    • Fully confidential.
    • Can call from anywhere in Australia.
    • When you call the Quitline a Quit Pack is sent to you free of charge.
  • Get a free QuitPack.
    • Call the Quitline on 13 7848 to order your QuitPack.
    • The QuitPack contains planning and preparation tools, list of services available to assist you in quitting.
 
  • Sign up to QuitCoach.
    • An online QuitCoach is available to help you quit. The QuitCoach can assist you at each stage of the quitting process and is available whenever you need.
 
  • Download My Quit Buddy.
    • Free to download onto iPhone, iPad or Android phone. Features tips, goal setting, and daily motivation and reminders.
 
  • Use patches, gum or medication.
    • Prescription medications and nicotine replacement therapy are available to assist in quitting smoking.
    • Medications assist to reduce withdrawal symptoms.
    • Ensure that you speak to a doctor or pharmacist before commencing any medications or nicotine replacement therapy.
 
  • Quitting cold turkey.
    • To suddenly give up smoking is known as the cold turkey method.
    • Quitting cold turkey is easier for people that are light smokers compared to moderate-heavy smokers.
    • Seeking support and advice can be beneficial to ensure.
 
Tips for quitting
  • Create new healthy habits.
  • Set dates and goals to quit.
  • Think about alternate ways to manage the urge to smoke.
  • Seek support from family and friends.
  • Contact the Quitline 13 78 48, and see the Quit SA website.
For more information on quitting, including strategies to quitting and support, see
 
 
 
Acknowledgements to Quit SA and Morguefile for images
 
References
 
1. Quit Now 2012, Damaging your body, viewed 18 March 2013
2. Quit Now 2012, Benefits of quitting, viewed 18 March 2013
3. Quit Now 2012, Health benefits for females, viewed 18 March 2013
4. Quit Now 2012, Health benefits for males, viewed 18 March 2013