Smoking poses numerous health risks. Despite public health campaigns, it remains prevalent in Singapore and in many countries across the world. Smoking has well-documented negative effects on our bodies, from yellowing teeth to increasing the risk of various health conditions. It has also long been associated with multiple health risks, including heart disease, lung cancer, and stroke. In addition to these physical health risks, smoking may also affect one’s mental and psychological health. It’s a habit that has far-reaching consequences. If you are a smoker, you probably already know all of this, but still have found kicking the smoking habit challenging. The team at Osler Health are here to help.
Health risks associated with smoking
The health risks associated with smoking are concerning. From lung cancer and heart disease to stroke and respiratory infections, smoking is linked to multiple chronic diseases. Smoking is further implicated in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is also a serious respiratory condition. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tobacco use is responsible for more than 8 million deaths worldwide annually, with over 7 million of these deaths caused by direct tobacco use and around 1.2 million due to non-smokers being exposed to second-hand smoke. In addition, smokers have a significantly shorter life expectancy than non-smokers. Smoking is the leading cause of preventable deaths worldwide.
The importance of quitting smoking
Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health! In the long term, kicking the habit can lead to a reduction in the risk of heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer. Aside from reducing the risk of these conditions, quitting smoking can also lead to a better quality of life. Smokers may experience a range of negative effects from smoking, such as shortness of breath, reduced sense of taste and smell, and decreased physical fitness. Stopping smoking can help to reverse these effects and lead to an improvement in overall health and wellbeing.
Challenges associated with quitting smoking
Making a decision to stop smoking is a difficult process that requires patience, commitment, and support. Nicotine addiction can be both physical and psychological, making it challenging for smokers to kick the habit. Withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating can also make it difficult for smokers to quit. This is why we have developed a specific programme to support you on your journey to quit as part of our Lifestyle Medicine approach to patient care. In addition, environmental cues, such as seeing someone else smoking, can trigger cravings for cigarettes. You may have already tried quitting smoking as many people find it takes several attempts, and some smokers may need to try different methods or strategies before they can successfully quit. Together we can do it. Seeking support and guidance from healthcare professionals or support groups will greatly increase the chances of getting rid of this habit. We have developed a specific Smoking Cessation Programme to support you to do this and start your journey to health.
Why seeking support is crucial
For those wondering how to quit smoking, seeking support is critical to increase the chances of success. A supportive environment can help to make quitting easier and provide smokers and the team at Osler Health have specialists as well as specific medications to help you quit. Support may mean accessing specialist getting counselling, or using nicotine replacement therapies or specific medication to reduce the craving. A supportive environment can help to make quitting easier, manage withdrawal symptoms more effectively, and provide smokers with the tools they need to quit for good. Find out more on our Smoking Cessation Programme.
Seek the help you need with Osler Health
At Osler Health, we understand the difficulties of quitting smoking, and our team of medical professionals can access the support you need. We understand that quitting smoking is not easy, and we are committed to helping both local and international patients achieve their goal of a smoke-free life
But if you are still on the journey to kicking the habit, going for regular health screenings in Singapore is essential, and our clinic offers a range of comprehensive health screening services, including women’s full body checkups and full men’s health check-ups. Our clinic in Singapore also provides onsite health screening services to ensure that our patients receive the best care possible. By taking care of your health and quitting smoking, you can improve your quality of life and reduce your risk of developing serious health conditions. Remember, it’s never too late to quit smoking and take control of your health. Get in touch today to learn how we can assist you or make an appointment online now.
