There is no easy way to quit the smoking habit and unfortunately there is no miracle cure for the addiction. The key to success lies in really wanting to stop and then using your willpower to remain off cigarettes. It sounds easy but it's not.

To help you kick the habit there are some important facts which you should know about smoking and your health. In Ireland it is estimated that over five thousand people die every year as a result of smoking related diseases. 40% of those who smoke twenty or more cigarettes per day, die before reaching retirement age compared to only 15% of non-smokers. Smokers are ten times more likely to die from lung cancer are three times more likely to develop premature heart disease than non-smokers. In addition smokers develop more chronic bronchitis, emphysema and circulatory problems which can result in respiratory failure, strokes, gangrene and limb amputation. All of these risks decrease dramatically on smoking cessation.

The nicotine in cigarettes is addictive and withdrawal symptoms can be troublesome for 4-6 weeks after smoking cessation. The main difficulties are irritability and restlessness. These troublesome withdrawal symptoms can be relieved by the use of nicotine supplements (chewing gum, patches or sprays), hypnosis, acupuncture etc. However there is really NO substitute for WILLPOWER! Remember none of the commercial aids can help if willpower is what you lack!

There is no point in giving up if you are not sure and not therefore absolutely committed to trying. Don't make excuses to prevent yourself from making a real effort to stop - just make up your mind and do it. Once you have survived the first day without a cigarette you then need to take one day at a time - sheer determination and planning to avoid situations where you might be tempted to smoke should help you through the difficult few weeks or months ahead. Stopping smoking is just the first step - hopefully if you remain off the cigarettes for good you will enjoy a longer and better quality of life in the future.

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