Reasons to Quit

What Smoking Does to Us

• Smoking causes 1 out of every 5 deaths in US
• On average smokers die 7 - 8 years too early
• More than 440,000 deaths in the US each year are from smoking-related illnesses, according to the National Cancer Institute

What Smoking Costs Us*

*Based on 52 weeks in a year

• $3 a pack @ 5 packs a week = $780 a year
• $3 a pack @ 10 packs a week = $1560 a year
• $5 a pack @ 5 packs a week = $1300 a year
• $5 a pack @ 10 packs a week = $2600 a year

Why Do Smokers Keep Smoking?

• Smokers need the nicotine in cigarettes. They are addicted to nicotine.
• People often smoke when they are stressed, bored, or angry.
• Smoking also becomes a habit.

Ending the Addiction

• The nicotine patch, gum or spray can increase your chance of quitting
• Medications (pills) can help smokers to quit. A smoker starts taking the pills a week or two before their quit date.

Tips for Quitting

The 5 D's Can Help

1. Drink water.
2. Deep breathe.
3. Do things to stay busy.
4. Delay each cigarette 3 to 5 minutes.
5. Discuss feelings with family and friends.

Withdrawal Symptoms and Activities that Might Help

Sourced from:
Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, "Quitting Times: A Magazine for Women Who Smoke"
National Cancer Institute, "Clearing the Air: How to Quit Smoking" 1993
Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living, "Guide to Quit Smoking"
Mary Calvagna, MS, "Tips to Help You Stop Smoking" 2008