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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

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Intervention
  1. What are the health benefits of quitting smoking/tobacco use?

  2. How do I quit smoking or using tobacco?

  3. How do I help a smoker/tobacco user quit?

  4. What are common withdrawal symptoms from smoking/tobacco use?

  5. How do I manage withdrawal symptoms?

  6. Will I gain weight if I quit smoking?

  7. Is there a shot to help people quit smoking/tobacco?

  8. How do I get a referral to a tobacco cessation program?

  9. How do I find a support group for smoking/tobacco cessation?

  10. Are there special events to promote tobacco use prevention or cessation?

  11. Do alternatives treatments, such as hypnotism or acupuncture, work for smoking/tobacco cessation?

  12. Does CDC offer a list of approved tobacco prevention programs for schools?



  1. What are the health benefits of quitting smoking/tobacco use?
    ▪ Stroke risk is reduced to that of a person who never smoked after 5 to 15 years of not smoking.

    ▪ Cancers of the mouth, throat, and esophagus risks are halved 5 years after quitting.

    ▪ Cancer of the larynx risk is reduced after quitting.

    ▪ Coronary heart disease risk is cut by half 1 year after quitting and is nearly the same as someone who never smoked 15 years after quitting.

    ▪ Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease risk for death is reduced after quitting.

    ▪ Lung cancer risk drops by as much as half 10 years after quitting.

    ▪ Ulcer risk drops after quitting.

    ▪ Bladder cancer risk is halved a few years after quitting.

    ▪ Peripheral artery disease declines after quitting.

    ▪ Cervical cancer risk is reduced a few years after quitting.

    ▪ Low birth weight baby risk drops to normal if pregnant women quit before pregnancy or during their first trimester.


    Resources:

    Title: The Health Consequences of Smoking: A Report of the Surgeon General
    Source: CDC
    http://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/data_statistics/sgr/sgr_2004/index.htm

    Title: The Benefits of Quitting (poster)
    Source: CDC
    http://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/sgr/sgr_2004/posters/benefits.htm

    Title: Within 20 Minutes of Quitting (poster)
    Source: CDC
    http://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/data_statistics/sgr/sgr_2004/posters/20mins.htm

    Smokefree.gov Web Site
    http://www.smokefree.gov

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  2. How do I quit smoking or using tobacco?
    Research shows that counseling, self-help programs, and the use of FDA-approved medications are safe and effective ways to increase quitting. These methods can double your chances of quitting for good. Success rates are best when counseling and medications are used together. The FDA has approved the following medications as being safe and effective: five nicotine replacement therapies (nicotine patches, gum, lozenges, inhalers, and nasal sprays); two non-nicotine medications (bupropion and varenicline).

    CDC cannot provide medical advice, give specific treatment instructions, or refer you to a specialist care provider. However, the Smoking & Tobacco Use Web site’s Quit Smoking section and Smokefree.gov Web site offer useful resources to help you quit smoking. You also may want to contact a licensed health care provider or call your state tobacco quitline for more information on smoking cessation treatment options.


    Resources:

    Smoking & Tobacco Use Web Site: Quit Smoking
    http://www.cdc.gov/tobaccoquit_smoking/index.htm

    National Network of Tobacco Cessation Quitlines
    1-800-QUITNOW (1-800-784-8669)
    TTY 1-800-332-8615

    National Cancer Institute Web site: Quitting Tobacco: Challenges, Strategies, and Benefits http://www.nci.nih.gov/cancertopics/tobacco/quittingtips

    Smokefree.gov Web Site
    http://www.smokefree.gov

    American Lung Association's Freedom From Smoking Online (Web-based self-help program)
    http://www.lungusa.org

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  3. How do I help a smoker/tobacco user quit?
    Family, friends, coworkers, and others can be importance sources of support for people who are trying to quit. The person must want to quit and must make the decision to try to quit, but others can contribute to that important decision.

    Resist the temptation to nag, plead, bribe, or threaten them. Instead, tell them why it’s important to you that they quit. Be brief. If they are not receptive, try again another time.

    If someone you care about says that he or she is ready to quit, is trying to quit, or has recently quit, tell them how proud you are and offer your support. Remember that quitting is tough.

    Nicotine withdrawal causes unpleasant symptoms, so the person may be tense, irritable, or even sad for a time. Be sympathetic. Remind them that the withdrawal symptoms will eventually go away and that they are already becoming healthier.

    Offer to go for walk with them or do other activities that will help keep them distracted. Encourage them to eat healthy foods, drink plenty of water and juices, and get enough rest.

    Help the new nonsmoker avoid places where other people are smoking or places or activities they connect with smoking. If they relapse, encourage them to get back on track and move on.

    Let the person know that there are sources of support, such as their state tobacco quitline at 1-800-QUITNOW (1-800-784-8669), which they can call toll free at for one-on-one help and information.


    Resources:

    CDC Smoking & Tobacco Use Web Site: Quit Smoking
    http://www.cdc.gov/tobaccoquit_smoking/index.htm

    National Network of Tobacco Cessation Quitlines
    1-800-QUITNOW (1-800-784-8669)
    TTY 1-800-332-8615

    National Cancer Institute Web Site: Quitting Tobacco: Challenges, Strategies, and Benefits http://www.nci.nih.gov/cancertopics/tobacco/quittingtips

    Smokefree.gov Web Site
    http://www.smokefree.gov

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  4. What are common withdrawal symptoms from smoking/tobacco use?
    When a person quits smoking or using smokeless tobacco, they often experience one or more of the following symptoms:

    ▪ Experiencing a strong urge to smoke, dip, or chew
    ▪ Feeling angry or frustrated
    ▪ Feeling anxious or depressed
    ▪ Finding it hard to concentrate
    ▪ Feeling headachy, restless, or tired
    ▪ Being hungry or gaining weight
    ▪ Having trouble sleeping

    These symptoms are temporary, and they vary from person to person. Symptoms usually peak about 1 to 3 weeks after quitting. Cravings or urges to use tobacco may last much longer than other symptoms.


    Resources:

    Smoking & Tobacco Use Web Site: Quit Smoking
    http://www.cdc.gov/tobaccoquit_smoking/index.htm

    Smokefree.gov Web Site
    http://www.smokefree.gov

    National Cancer Institute Web Site: Quitting Tobacco: Challenges, Strategies, and Benefits
    http://www.nci.nih.gov/cancertopics/tobacco/quittingtips

    National Network of Tobacco Cessation Quitlines
    1-800-QUITNOW (1-800-784-8669)
    TTY 1-800-332-8615

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  5. How do I manage withdrawal symptoms?
    Nicotine withdrawal symptoms vary from person to person and usually peak about 1 to 3 weeks after quitting tobacco use.

    People who have successfully quit have found a number of ways to help them cope with withdrawal symptoms until they lessen or go away. These are especially important in the first week, when symptoms are strongest and the chance of relapse is greatest.

    After you quit:
    • Drink a lot of water and fruit juice. Avoid drinks that contain caffeine or alcohol.
    ▪ If you miss having a cigarette in your hand, play with a pencil, paper clip, or other item.
    ▪ If you miss having something in your mouth, try sugar-free gum or hard candies, sunflower seeds, carrots, or celery sticks.
    ▪ Stay busy. Enjoy activities that are hard to combine with smoking. Go to places where smoking is not allowed.
    ▪ Change habits. Get up from the table immediately after you finish eating and take a walk. If you always smoke while driving, take public transportation (if available) or get a ride with a nonsmoker if you can. Is the telephone a problem? Meet friends to talk in person.
    ▪ Brush your teeth often. Enjoy the feeling of a clean mouth.
    ▪ Avoid situations and places you strongly associate with the pleasure of smoking.
    ▪Take advantage of resources that offer support.

    If symptoms are severe, you might want to consider one of the treatments that the Public Health Service considers to be safe and effective. These treatments include counseling, the use of FDA-approved medications, or a combination of these treatments. As of 2006, the FDA had approved the following medications as being safe and effective: five nicotine replacement therapies (nicotine patches, gum, lozenges, inhalers, and nasal sprays), Zyban® (bupropion), and Chantix™ (varenicline tartrate). Ask your doctor for advice.


    Resources:

    CDC Smoking & Tobacco Use Web Site: Quit Smoking
    http://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/quit_smoking/how_to_quit/index.htm

    National Network of Tobacco Cessation Quitlines
    1-800-QUITNOW (1-800-784-8669)
    TTY 1-800-332-8615

    Smokefree.gov Web Site
    http://www.smokefree.gov

    National Cancer Institute Web Site: Quitting Tobacco: Challenges, Strategies, and Benefits http://www.nci.nih.gov/cancertopics/tobacco/quittingtips


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  6. Will I gain weight if I quit smoking?
    Weight gain is a particular concern for some people. Although it’s not uncommon to gain some weight when you quit smoking, studies show that the average weight gain is only 6 to 8 pounds, and many people lose at least part of this weight after a period of time. For tips on how to minimize any weight gain, visit the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases' Weight Information Network's (WIN) Web site, or call WIN toll-free at 1-877-946-4627.

    Resources:

    Title: You Can Control Your Weight as You Quit Smoking
    Source: Weight-control Information Network: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
    http://win.niddk.nih.gov/publications/smoking.htm

    Smokefree.gov Web Site
    http://www.smokefree.gov

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  7. Is there a shot to help people quit smoking/tobacco?
    At this time, there is no medication available that is given as a shot that is approved as a safe and effective way to help people quit smoking or using smokeless tobacco. However, researchers are working on several vaccines that might be helpful in the future. These vaccines cause the body’s immune system to produce antibodies that stop nicotine from reaching the brain. Clinical studies are now being done to find out if stopping the pleasurable effects of nicotine will help a person quit.

    It will be several years before the clinical trials are completed and a vaccine can be submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for possible approval. Smokers should be wary of Web sites or clinics that claim to already have a stop smoking shot or vaccine.


    Resources:

    CDC Smoking & Tobacco Use Web Site: Quit Smoking
    http://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/quit_smoking/index.htm

    Smokefree.gov Web Site
    http://www.smokefree.gov

    National Network of Tobacco Cessation Quitlines
    1-800-QUITNOW (1-800-784-8669)
    TTY 1-800-332-8615

    U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
    301-827-4570
    http://www.fda.gov/cder/index.html

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  8. How do I get a referral to a tobacco cessation program?
    As a federal agency, CDC is not permitted to refer people to particular providers or programs. CDC encourages people who are looking for tobacco cessation programs or practitioners to ask their doctor for advice. You also can get information about local resources by contacting your state tobacco quitline at 1-800-QUITNOW (1-800-784-8669).

    If you are looking for a cessation program, you might also want to contact your local chapter of the American Lung Association at 1-800-LUNG-USA (1-800-586-4872).


    Resources:

    National Network of Tobacco Cessation Quitlines
    1-800-QUITNOW (1-800-784-8669)
    TTY 1-800-332-8615

    Smokefree.gov Web Site
    http://www.smokefree.gov

    American Lung Association
    1-800-LUNG-USA (1-800-586-4872)
    http://www.lungusa.org

    Back to Top


  9. How do I find a support group for smoking/tobacco cessation?
    Many people find that a support group is helpful when trying to quit smoking or using smokeless tobacco. These groups can help you spot problems and teach you ways overcome to them. They can help you learn to manage withdrawal symptoms, deal with stress, and resist urges to smoke, chew, or dip.

    If you would like to find a support group in your area, try the following:

    ▪ Check with your doctor. He or she may know of programs or groups in your area.

    ▪ Call your local chapter of the American Lung Association at 1-800-LUNG-USA (1-800-586-4872).

    ▪ Contact your local health department. Their number is in the blue pages of your telephone book.

    ▪ Check with your local hospital. Many hospitals have a community wellness office.

    ▪ Join an online support group.


    Resources:

    National Network of Tobacco Cessation Quitlines
    1-800-QUITNOW (1-800-784-8669)
    TTY 1-800-332-8615

    Live Help Instant Messaging Service
    National Cancer Institute
    https://cissecure.nci.nih.gov/livehelp/welcome.asp

    American Lung Association
    1-800-LUNG USA (1-800-586-4872)
    http://www.lungusa.org

    Back to Top


  10. Are there special events to promote tobacco use prevention or cessation?
    Each year, several national events are held to focus attention on the effects of tobacco use and the benefits of quitting. Key events include:

    • Tobacco-Free Awareness Week, which usually takes place the last week in January
    • Kick Butts Day, which takes place on the first Wednesday in April
    • World No Tobacco Day, which is celebrated each year on May 31
    • The Great American Smokeout, which takes place on the third Thursday in November

    For more information, see the Tobacco Control Media Calendar of Events, which is featured on the CDC Smoking and Tobacco Use Web site.


    Resources:

    CDC Smoking & Tobacco Use Web Site: 2007 Tobacco Control Media Events Calendar
    http://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/media_communications/calendar/index.htm

    Kick Butts Day
    Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids
    http://www.kickbuttsday.org

    World No Tobacco Day
    World Health Organization
    http://www.who.int/tobacco/en/

    The Great American Smokeout
    American Cancer Society
    http://www.cancer.org/docroot/PED/PED_10_4_Great_American_Smokeout.asp

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  11. Do alternatives treatments, such as hypnotism or acupuncture, work for smoking/tobacco cessation?
    At this time, not enough scientific evidence exists to recommend hypnosis or acupuncture as effective treatments for people who want to quit smoking. No evidence exists to support the use of acupressure, laser therapy, electrostimulation, or herbal supplements.

    Research shows that counseling, self-help programs, and the use of FDA-approved medications are safe and effective ways to increase quitting. These methods can double your chances of quitting for good. Success rates are best when counseling and medications are used together. As of 2006, the FDA has approved the following medications as being safe and effective: five nicotine replacement therapies (nicotine patches, gum, lozenges, inhalers, and nasal sprays), Zyban® (bupropion), and Chantix™ (varenicline tartrate).

    CDC's Smoking & Tobacco Use Web site and Smokefree.gov, a DHHS Web site, provide information about approved treatments. Additionally, you can contact your state tobacco quitline at 1-800-QUITNOW (1-800-784-8669 with any questions you have about how to quit.



    Resources:

    CDC Smoking & Tobacco Use Web Site: Quit Smoking
    http://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/quit_smoking/index.htm

    Smokefree.gov Web Site
    http://www.smokefree.gov

    National Network of Tobacco Cessation Quitlines
    1-800-QUITNOW (1-800-784-8669)
    TTY 1-800-332-8615

    Back to Top


  12. Does CDC offer a list of approved tobacco prevention programs for schools?
    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not have a list of approved, science-based tobacco prevention programs for schools.

    CDC has many resources for educators and community leaders. These resources include publications and fact sheets that are suitable for lesson plans and a collection of videos--some of which come with a teacher’s guide. Posters also are available that can be displayed in the classroom to reinforce messages. Descriptions of these resources can be found in the Publications Catalog featured on the CDC Smoking & Tobacco Use Web site.

    Other resources available to educators the Resources for Teachers section on CDC's Media Campaign Resource Center (MCRC) Web site.

    Additionally, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has a Model Programs Web site that features replicable programs that have been successfully implemented. These include some programs that address tobacco use prevention.


    Resources:

    CDC Smoking & Tobacco Use Web Site: Publications and Products
    http://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/publications/index.htm

    CDC Smoking & Tobacco Use Web Site: Media Communications
    http://www.cdc.gov/tobacco_redesign/media_communications/

    CDC Media Campaign Resource Center (MCRC)
    http://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/media_communications/countermarketing/mcrc/index.htm

    Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA's) Model Programs
    http://modelprograms.samhsa.gov/template_cf.cfm?page=model_list

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