Instead of making a long list of New Year’s resolutions, why not go all in on one big one? According to oncologists we talked to, ceasing one common habit will drastically decrease the risk of cancer as well as other health conditions including heart disease and dementia. In fact, this habit is so detrimental to health that they’re begging people to stop doing it.
If you are one of the 49.2 million Americans who use tobacco (nearly one in five), Dr. Ivy Riano, MD, a thoracic oncologist at the Dartmouth Cancer Center, is begging you to make 2025 the year you stop. “Kicking this addiction is one of the most impactful decisions someone can make for their health, benefiting both themselves and those around them,” she says.
Scientific research shows that tobacco use is directly linked to causing at least 16 types of cancer with the two most common types of cancer it causes being lung cancer and bowel cancer. It’s also strongly linked to heart disease and dementia. But it’s never too late to quit. “Adults who quit smoking between age 25 to 34, 35 to 44, or 45 to 54 years of age gain about 10, nine, and six years of life, respectively,” Dr. Madan noted.
How to Quit Using Tobacco for Good
It isn’t exactly breaking news that using tobacco is detrimental to health. If you smoke or vape, you likely already know it’s bad for you; the problem is that you don’t know how to quit. Tobacco is addictive and while giving it up isn’t easy, it certainly isn’t impossible.
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If going cold turkey feels too overwhelming, Dr. Madan recommends breaking up your goal to quit using tobacco into smaller, incremental goals. This can look like slowly decreasing the amount of times you use tobacco per day until you are able to give it up completely.
“Two key ingredients for achieving your health goals are discipline and consistency. Any healthy habit when done consistently over a long period of time will improve your overall physical and mental health,” Dr. Madan advises. To stay disciplined and committed, both oncologists say that having support from friends and family is key. Tell the people you spend the most time with about your commitment to stop using tobacco and ask them to help support you.
“Take it one day at a time and focus on the benefits,” Dr. Riano says. Remember why you’ve decided to quit using tobacco and every time you are tempted, remind yourself of it. With dedication, a solid plan for overcoming triggers and social support, your goal can become a reality. You’ve got this!
Related: Worried You'll Gain Weight If You Quit Smoking? Read This.
Sources
Dr. Ivy Riano, MDDr. Ankit Madan, MDHence then, the article about the one thing oncologists are begging you to stop doing in 2025 was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
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