The Benefits of Quitting Tobacco

 Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of preventable disease and death in the United States. While quitting can be hard, the health benefits can be life-changing. The sooner you quit, the sooner your body can begin to heal. 

 Some benefits of quitting include: 

•  Better night vision
• Healthier-looking skin
• Lower risk of heart disease
• Lower risk of type 2 diabetes
• Healthier cholesterol levels
• Stronger muscles and bones
• Better mental health
• Lower risk of lung diseases such as emphysema and COPD Less damage to the lungs
• Lower risk of many types of cancer
• Lower risk of sexual health problems
• A stronger immune system 

 Make a Plan to Quit

Quitting tobacco is a process. Many people try more than once before they quit for good. If you slip up, don’t give up. Each attempt can help you learn what works best for you. A quit plan can help. Try these steps: 

•  Choose a quit date.
• Write down your reasons for quitting.
• Think about what makes you want to smoke.
• Plan healthy ways to deal with cravings. 
•  Remove cigarettes, lighters and other reminders from your home, car and workplace.
• Tell family and friends about your goal and ask for support. 

Find Support You do not have to quit alone. Free resources are available to help you succeed, including: 

• SmokefreeTXT
• QuitGuide mobile app
• 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669)
• Smokefree.gov
• BeTobaccoFree.gov
• National Cancer Institute LiveHelp chat 

Consider Nicotine Replacement Therapy

Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It gives your body nicotine without many of the harmful chemicals found in cigarettes.

 Common types of NRT include:

• Nicotine patch (over-the-counter): Worn on the skin to provide a steady amount of nicotine.

• Nicotine gum (over-the-counter): Chewed to release nicotine and help control cravings.

• Nicotine lozenge (over-the-counter): Dissolves slowly in the mouth to release nicotine.

• Nicotine inhaler (prescription): Delivers nicotine through a mouthpiece.

• Nicotine nasal spray (prescription): Sprayed into the nose for fast nicotine delivery. 

Get extra help from resources like SmokefreeTXT, QuitGuide phone app, 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669), Smokefree.gov, BeTobaccoFree.gov and the LiveHelp chat with the National Cancer Institute.

Other Medicines That Can Help

Some prescription medicines can also help people quit smoking. Examples include bupropion (Zyban®) and varenicline (Chantix®). These medicines do not contain nicotine, but they can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Talk with your doctor or other health care provider about which option may be right for you.