Although the majority of smokers want to reduce or stop smoking, attempts to do so often fail. People who quit generally achieve the same health levels as nonsmokers after a few years, especially if they stop while they are young. Some lung disease may not be completely reversible, but even older lifetime smokers can benefit significantly from quitting. It helps to find a personal reason. Withdrawal symptoms subside more quickly for smokers who quit all at once than for those who gradually cut down.
Most quitters stop on their own - sometimes with the help of books, pamphlets, guides, or videos.
Some prefer group support or professional counselling from a doctor, a smoking clinic, or a local health agency. Nicorette, a prescription gum containing nicotine, has helped some people deal with withdrawal symptoms, particularly those who are very dependent on nicotine. Many smokers worry about weight gain if they stop smoking. Studies show that many of those who quit gain weight, but the gain is usually only a few kilograms, and can be minimized by exercising and eating low-fat foods. Although males were once far more likely to smoke than females, smoking rates have become more similar for both sexes in recent years.