Identification

Cigarettes contain highly addictive substances, notably nicotine. Nicotine stimulates the heart at first, then causes a loss of energy and depression--making the smoker crave another nicotine fix to stimulate himself.

Considerations

Besides the physical addiction to nicotine, people become accustomed to smoking as part of their daily routine. Usually, a person's normal activities reminds her of cigarettes.

Misconceptions

Some people who try to quit use a product known as "smokeless tobacco," also called chewing tobacco. This product still contains nicotine and carries the same carcinogenic risks and addiction potential.

Prevention/Solution

The best way to quit smoking is by simply not taking up the habit in the first place. Many people start smoking at a young age to fit in with friends, so parents need to warn their kids about the dangers of cigarettes.

Tips

Physical symptoms of quitting smoking, such as weigh gain and discomfort, disappear as time goes on. Many people find phasing out cigarettes slowly more effective than going "cold turkey"--stopping all at once. Part of quitting means staying active to get the mind off of nicotine, so starting to quit on a Monday, when people have work and school, may aid in the process.

Source:

American Heart Association: Cigarette Smoking Statistics

KidsHealth.org: How Can I Quit Smoking

SmokeFree.gov: Benefits of Quitting

More Information:

American Heart Association: Smokeless Tobacco