Why Quit Now?
You’ve just been told you have cancer. And now, you want the one thing you know you shouldn’t have. A cigarette. And you’re right — there’s no upside to tobacco use while in cancer treatment. Research has shown that smoking after a cancer diagnosis could interfere with chemotherapy, surgery, radiation therapy and reduce your chance for survival.
That’s reason enough to quit, but there’s more. Tobacco use can also slow wound healing after surgery, increase the risk of side effects from radiation therapy and decrease the response to radiation therapy.
And quitting sooner rather than later matters, too. Studies have shown that a longer length of time between stopping smoking and starting cancer treatment is associated with a better prognosis (chance of recovery).
Finally, if you quit smoking — even at the time of diagnosis — you significantly lower the risk of developing secondary cancers (a different type of cancer that appears after the original cancer diagnosis).
How Does It Work?
You’ll have all the resources you need to quit tobacco, beginning with three different approaches:
- One-on-one visits in person
- One-on-one virtual visits
- Group visits
In our one-on-one visits, whether in person or virtual, you’ll learn more about triggers and how to avoid cravings. And you’ll get medical help as you make this journey.
In group visits, our providers will spend eight sessions with you and others on the same journey. This program follows the agenda created by the American Lung Association. We may also help you with medications to help you quit.
Session 1 — Thinking About Quitting
- Introductions
- Tracking packs of cigarettes
- Identifying triggers
- Medication discussion
Session 2 — Road to Freedom
- Learning not to smoke
- Lifestyle changes
- Stress management
- Health effects of smoking
Session 3 — Wanting To Quit
- Motivation
- Making a plan to quit
- Relaxation exercises
- Building a support system
Session 4 — Quit Day
- Buddy system
- Contracts and rewards
- Overcoming relapse
- Medication review
- Recovery symptoms
Session 5 — Winning Strategies
- Measuring carbon monoxide levels
- Medication review
- Grief cycle
- Coping strategies
Session 6 — The New You
- Medication review
- Weight management
- Tips for staying smoke-free
- Handling social situations
Session 7 — Staying Off
- Physical activity
- Assertive communication
- Plan for celebration
Session 8 — Celebration
- Stress management
- Medication review
- Planning for a smoke-free lifestyle
Ready to Quit?
Quitting smoking — or stopping any tobacco use — is especially important when you’re also facing cancer. But you don’t have to face either challenge on your own. At Cleveland Clinic, we combine a century of expertly treating cancer with the experienced care at the Taussig Tobacco Cessation Program. So, whether you smoke, chew or dip (or even vape), we’re here for you. We can help you end tobacco use for good.
To get started, please call our Cancer Answer Line toll-free at 866.223.8100.
