Descrizione

Six out of ten smokers would like to stop smoking. Smoking cessation usually needs 3-4 attempts to succeed. A simple encouragement by a doctor to stop smoking is effective, but a three minute counselling session is even more effective . Ask about the patient's smoking habits and willingness to stop (use the six A's approach: ask, assess, account, advise, assist, arrange).Motivational interviewing can reinforce the patient's readiness, willingness, and ability for a lifestyle change. Varenicline and bupropion are effective in supporting smoking cessation. Nicotine replacement therapy increases the success rate of smoking cessation 1.5-2 fold . Nicotine dependence (F17.2) is similar to other substance dependence disorders as regards to pharmacological and behaviour control factors. Smoking is the most important preventable cause of mortality . 50% of smokers will die of an illness caused by smoking . Support to smoking cessation should be organized as a part of primary health care services.