Smoking Cessation: Breaking the Strong Addiction

Tobacco dependence is the primary cause of early mortality in adults. While rates of smoking cessation are increasing, people who have stopped smoking tobacco are underrepresented by individuals with low socioeconomic status (SES). Other groups such as women and African Americans are less likely to stop smoking tobacco. Furthermore, evidence-based treatment for tobacco dependence are largely tailored to patients ready to quit within 30 days, a group representing less than 30% of smokers. To improve tobacco cessation rates, conventional strategies need to be adapted to overcome the unique features that make these communities less likely to stop smoking. General and tailored strategies to increase adherence to guideline-recommended tobacco treatment in low SES populations, African Americans, women, and those not motivated to quit are discussed. Capitalizing on the multiple, potential teachable moments to promote smoking cessation in pulmonary practice is critical in preventing death and improving patient HRQoL.