Deciding to quit smoking is one of the best choices your patients can make for their health.
But the decision to quit and success are two distinct things. So, how can you help them quit the habit for good?
Starting the conversation
Firstly, your patient must genuinely want to quit smoking. Encouraging them to stop before they are ready may be counterproductive.
However, there are subtle ways to bring up the topic — and even small nudges in the right direction can have a significant impact.
You can look for triggers for quitting. Health concerns, signs of aging, impact on family or friends and anticipation of a new child or grandchild can all be powerful motivators.
Using E-cigarettes
Commonly referred to as vapes, E-cigarettes are a popular choice to help with quitting.
They allow users to inhale nicotine in a vapor form, eliminating harmful byproducts from traditional cigarette smoke. Public Health England estimates that vaping is up to 95% less harmful than smoking.
And research indicates that when people use e-cigarettes alongside expert face-to-face support, they can be twice as likely to succeed, compared to those using alternative nicotine replacement products like patches or gum.
Nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs)
While E-cigarettes can be incredibly effective, they may not be suitable for everyone.
There are various nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) available, providing nicotine without the harmful chemicals found in cigarettes and helping to alleviate withdrawal symptoms.
It is essential to discuss the various NRT options with your patients, as each has a distinct mode of action.
For example, patches release nicotine gradually, while sprays or gums deliver it more rapidly to combat sudden cravings.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to quitting smoking, as each person’s journey is unique.
Social support
Social support is important in a smoking cessation journey. Combining stop-smoking aids with expert guidance from local stop-smoking services increases the likelihood of success threefold, according to UK government statistics.
Here at Be Well Walsall, we offer free support to your patients on their path to quit smoking. Our dedicated team of health coaches provide personalized 1:1 coaching, tailored nicotine replacement therapy plans, and assistance with goal setting and tracking benefits.
To determine your patient’s eligibility and start the process, please refer to our eligibility criteria.
Quitting smoking is a journey, and your support as a healthcare professional can make a world of difference. Together, we can help your patients embrace a smoke-free, healthier future.
