Why Quit Smoking?

For Valentines give your loved ones a smoke free environment and a healthier you. It’s no secret cigarette smoking is bad for your health; associated with lung cancer, heart, and periodontal disease. Smoking also causes health problems for nonsmokers by producing second hand smoke.

Smoking has been linked to 20% of all deaths from heart disease in the US. Even a couple cigarettes a day increases the risk of coronary artery disease. The presence of nicotine in the smoke affects your heart by decreasing oxygen flow to the heart, increasing blood pressure, increasing blood clotting, and damaging cells that line coronary arteries and other blood vessels.

There is also a direct link between smoking and periodontal disease. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 41 percent of daily smokers over age 65 are toothless compared to about 20 percent for nonsmokers. This is because smoking increases calculus buildup, deepens pockets between teeth and gums, and promotes loss of bone and tissue that support your teeth.

Each year about 3000 nonsmoking adults die of lung cancer as a result of second hand smoke. These people inhale the smoke being exhaled from the smokers around them.

Many people find it hard to stop smoking because cigarettes contain nicotine and a smoker’s body craves nicotine. In order to stop the craving for good, your body has to stop craving it. You need help from doctors, family and friends.

How to quit smoking:

• Let everybody close to you know that you intend to quit smoking for good.
• Ask for their support and patience as you go through the difficult first few weeks or months as a non-smoker..
• Visit your doctor and ask for help for you potential nicotine cravings.
• Buy nicotine gum, lozenges or patches as your doctor suggests.
• Start an exercise program.
• Use sugar-free gum or candy to help you avoid smoking.
• Change your habits: instead of a cigarette take a brisk walk or doing chores around the house.
• Calling the National tobacco quit line: 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-800-784-8669) for additional help and support.

Finally, take it one step at a time and celebrate each day you do not smoke by engaging in something special. Be sure to print this page as a reminder that you are quitting smoking to show your love for those closest to you.