Question:  I am 56 years old and have just been diagnosed with lung disease.  I have been smoking for 18 years.  Do you have any advice on the most successful plan to quit smoking.  I have tried to quit smoking several times and still can’t break the habit.

Answer:  It is not uncommon to have tried several times without success.  Nicotine is very addictive, and people often try 2 to 3 times before finally quitting for good.  Studies have shown that each time you quit, you’ll become stronger and learn more about what it takes for your to quit permanently.  The following methods, according to many experts,  can be helpful.

 Use the nicotine patch, nicotine gum, or lozenge.  They can help lessen the urge to  smoke.  Check with your doctor first to make sure the one you chose will not interfere with other medicines and to select the correct dosage.  Be especially careful if you have heart or blood vessel problems.  Ask your doctor about prescription medications that can also help.  These include bupropion, nicotine inhalers, and nasal sprays.

Use more than one medication to help wiht smoking cessation.  Many times this improves success.  A doctor’s prescription is required for the above medications.

Get support and encouragement.  Studies about people who formerly smoked show that the more support you have the better your chance of success.  Counseling and/or a quit smoking program can be very helpful.  Enlist family members and friends, especialy ex-smokers to help you resist the urge to smoke.

Learn how to handle the stress and urges to smoke.  Mare a plan to handle those pressures and situations that make you want to smoke, such as being around other smokers, drinking alcohol, and feeling stressed or depressed.

Remembeer, your best chance for success is with the help of others.  Good luck and keep in touch!