Why it is hard to quit smoking? An addictive drug called Nicotine is present in all tobacco products. Smoking tobacco, and other forms of tobacco use, creates an addiction to nicotine. Addictive drugs like nicotine cause changes in the brain that create good feelings when used and unpleasant feelings (withdrawal symptoms) when discontinued. Nicotine addiction is one of the hardest addictions to break.

Getting Ready to Quit Smoking:
• Determine a quit date.
• Choose a method for quitting.
• Decide with your health care provider if you need medicines to help you quit.

Tips for Quitting Smoking:
• Eat a balanced diet, stay well hydrated and well-rested.
• Get a little exercise every
• Select healthy alternatives to reduce urges.
• Ask for support from family and friends.
• Don’t give up. It may take several attempts.

Tools for Quitting Smoking:
1. Nicotine Replacement Therapies
2. Common drug therapies for nicotine withdrawal
3. Counseling for smoking cessation

Quitting smoking has many health benefits including:
• Decreased cardiovascular risk.
• Reduced risk of cancer.
• Reduced risk of stroke.
• Reduced risk of lung disease such as COPD.