Breaking the habit of smoking is a challenging journey, but the World Health Organization (WHO) is now offering a guiding light with their newly released set of guidelines aimed at helping the 750 million tobacco users worldwide who are eager to quit.
The recommendations put forth by WHO encourage healthcare providers, policymakers, and other stakeholders to develop comprehensive tobacco cessation programs that integrate both medication and behavioral interventions.
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“The immense struggle that people face when trying to quit smoking cannot be overstated,” said Dr. Rüdiger Krech, director of health promotion at WHO. “We need to deeply appreciate the strength it takes and the suffering endured by individuals and their loved ones to overcome this addiction.”
Statistics from the WHO reveal that out of the 1.25 billion tobacco users globally, a staggering 750 million express a desire to quit. However, a significant 70% of these individuals lack the necessary support services to aid them in this journey.
Smoking is a major contributor to cancer, causing about 20% of all cancer cases in the United States. The American Cancer Society reports that approximately 80% of lung cancer cases and related deaths are directly linked to smoking.
The WHO guidelines point to medications like varenicline, bupropion, and cytisine as well as Nicotine Replacement Therapy as effective ways to kick the smoking habit. Behavioral interventions such as counseling and the use of smartphone apps are also recommended.
In Philadelphia, where poverty rates are high, research has shown a correlation between poverty and high rates of adult smoking. Cigarette smoking rates in the city, while declining, still remain above the national average according to a 2021 report from the Philadelphia Department of Public Health.
While the prevalence of smoking in Philadelphia has decreased from 24% to 17% among women and 26% to 23% among men between 2011 and 2019, these rates are still higher than the national averages for both genders.
Across Pennsylvania, smoking rates among adults mirror the national average of 14.1%, as highlighted in a 2021 report.
Looking to quit smoking? Check out these resources:
• Pennsylvania’s 24/7 Quitline offers counseling and support for those looking to quit tobacco. Call (800) 784-8669 for assistance.
• Consider reaching out to Penn Medicine at (888) PENN-STOP for their smoking treatment clinic services.
• Fox Chase Cancer Center provides counseling and pharmacotherapy through their tobacco treatment program. Call (888) 369-2427 for assistance.
• Jefferson Health’s JeffQuit program offers a gradual nicotine reduction plan over three weeks. Reach out to them at (215) 955-2221 for support.