FROM OUR SPONSOR: No more butts: Quit smoking now
By Sue Schick
CEO, UnitedHealthcare of Pennsylvania & Delaware
About 20% of all deaths from heart disease in the United States are related to cigarette smoking.* Fortunately, you don’t have to be in that percentage.
There are a host of factors that could put you at risk for heart disease, but none greater than smoking. Smoking is a health risk that keeps on giving, since it also exposes others to the health risks.
If you’re ready to quit, here are some tips:
- Set a date. Take one day at a time and set short-term goals.
- Tell your family and friends about your plans. You will need their encouragement when you feel the urge to light up.
- Social support is key to quitting successfully.
- Avoid temptation. Get rid of all cigarettes, lighters, and ashtrays. And keep busy whenever you feel the urge to smoke.
- Change your routine. If you usually smoke during your morning coffee, eat breakfast in a different place or drink tea instead of coffee.
- Talk to your doctor about using a medication or nicotine replacement therapy as an alternative to quitting cold turkey.
It’s never too late to give up the habit and reap the benefits. You’ll come out on top no matter how old you are or how long you’ve smoked.
Quit smoking and save money… more than you think! Read more here.
*American Heart Association, Cigarette smoking statistics. Accessed July 16, 2010
