Becoming a Former Smoker

A recent study from the UNC Department of Family Medicine and the UNC Linebarger Comprehensive Cancer Center published in Preventing Chronic Disease  reports that focus groups of current or recently stopped smokers suggest smokers often feel shame, isolation or disrespect, and want their doctors to understand the experience of being a smoker.  The smokers recommend healers acknowledge ” the great challenges that smokers face” now-a-days, that they explain the addiction process, and offer specific help toward stopping smoking.  Motivating factors and quality of life measures were also suggested, like improved energy and activity, the feeling of freedom from having to plan their lives around cigarette breaks, and the sense of pride in becoming smoke-free.

from a short summary in the Raleigh News & Observer

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