The ex-smoker

Press, 17 April 1980, Page 21

The ex-smoker

Smoking is probably the largest single preventable cause of ill health in the world. Although some scientific elements remain to be fully understood, the relationship of • cigarette smoking to a variety of diseases has been clearly demonstrated. Smoking increases the risk of lung cancer, heart disease and respiratory diseases of all kinds. If you smoke cigarettes your chances of dying before the retiring age of 65 years are twice as great as a non-smoker. However, if you stop smoking your expectation of life will improve. The longer you have given up the better your chances.

Most smokers at some time in their lives make a serious attempt to stop, and the number of exsmokers in this country is increasing steadily. : More than two thirds of all New Zealanders do not smoke and more than 350,000 have given up the habit.

According to a brochure dedicated to the ex-smoker and issued by the New', Zealand Department of Health, life is going to be a whole lot more fun now you are an ex-smoker.

“Your breath is fresher, your clothes, hair and skin no longer stink of smoke — you are much more attractive. It takes a little time before you will fully appreciate being an exsmoker. Your body first has to get rid of the accumulated smoke chemicals. You may notice an increase in coughing. This is a good sign showing that the cilia in your lungs are starting to work again, clearing out the tar and smoke particles. Do not worry —the coughing should not last long. Right after you put out your last cigarette, your body started work repairing the smoke damage. Your health should improve within weeks. If you are worried that your

health is not improving fast enough, see your doctor. '

During the first week or two after stopping smoking you may find yourself becoming scratchy and irritable. Tell your friends and relatives you need their support and understanding. They will be glad you put out your last cigarette and will tolerate your mood changes until your system returns to normal.

Some of your friends will offer you cigarettes. These will be difficult to refuse, particularly when you are socialising. Your friends will not be embarrassed or insulted by your refusal — in fact they will envy you for quitting. A simple “no thanks” is the answer.

Do not give in: It is simply not worth going through the hassle of quitting again. If the urge to smoke is strong try chewing on a toothpick, eating celery or other raw vegetables. Try distracting yourself, think of someone, something or somewhere you enjoy for 60 seconds and you will find the urge to light up lessens. Most ex-smokers find that as the days pass their desire to smoke decreases and finally fades altogether.

The Adventist Health Care Centre at 40 Bealey Avenue has a “Five Day Plan” to help people quit smoking and the next course will be held on May 25. For further encouragement the centre has a second seven week course titled “How to stay stopped.” ’ , ' ’■