Smoking cessation

Abstract

Smoking is the primary cause of preventable illness and premature death, making this a public health priority. Approximately 70% of smokers have their first cigarette of the day within an hour of waking, with 18% smoking within the first 5 minutes. Targeted interventions to facilitate cessation in this population have been implemented in legislation and in healthcare policies and guidelines. GPs have a crucial role to play in promoting health and preventing disease. During a consultation, there are excellent opportunities to discuss healthy lifestyles with the patient. More important than the GP's role is that of the patient through self-care. To put patients at the centre of their care, GPs need to possess appropriate skills. These include: supporting people; taking them through a range of approaches in partnership; and recognizing that the individual should make the decisions and take the actions themselves.