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(HealthNewsDigest.com) – Tobacco is the leading preventable cause of cancer death today. If you use any tobacco products, your risk increases for cancer of the lungs, mouth, throat, esophagus, stomach, pancreas, kidney, bladder, uterus, cervix, ovary, and colon.
Many people struggle with quitting, which is both a mental and physical process.
Experts at UT Southwestern Medical Center provide valuable advice to future non-smokers:
· Set a quit date and prepare in advance.
· Eliminate temptations: Remove cigarettes, ashtrays, lighters, and matches from your house, purse or backpack, and car.
· Plan for activities that are incompatible with smoking: See a movie, go to the gym, or spend time with a supportive non-smoking friend.
· Avoid other smokers and designated smoking areas.
· Prepare for temptations you can’t avoid. For example, plan what you will say to someone who offers you a cigarette.
· Get help! Talk to your physician about medications and other treatment options. Those who get help are far more likely to successfully quit.
“On any given quit attempt, only 5 percent of people succeed by cold turkey alone,” said Dr. Darla E. Kendzor, an assistant adjunct professor and member of the Simmons Cancer Center at UT Southwestern.
“Success rates are highest when people turn to a combination of counseling and medication. Your doctor can help you choose the treatment that is right for you, and many times it is covered by health insurance. Some of the most popular treatments are available even over the counter.”
Those who obtain help are far more likely to successfully quit. Contact UT Southwestern’s Cancer Answer Line at 1-888-980-6050 or via email at canceranswerline@
Media Contact: Lori Soderbergh, lori.soderbergh@
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