Many
of tobacco's health effects can be minimized through smoking cessation. The
British doctors study showed that those who stopped smoking before they reached
30 years of age lived almost as long as those who never smoked. It is
also possible to reduce the risks by reducing the frequency of smoking and by
proper diet and exercise. Some research has indicated that some of the damage
caused by smoking tobacco can be moderated with the use of antioxidants. Smokers
wanting to quit or to temporarily abstain from smoking can use a variety of
nicotine-containing tobacco substitutes, or nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)
products to temporarily lessen the physical withdrawal symptoms, the most
popular being nicotine gum and lozenges. Nicotine patches are also used for
smoking cessation. Medications that do not contain nicotine can also be used,
such as bupropion (Zyban or Wellbutrin) and varenicline (Chantix).
Smoking cessation (commonly known as quitting, or kicking
the habit) is the effort to stop smoking tobacco products. Nicotine is a
psychologically and physically addictive substance, and quitting smoking is
commonly considered to be difficult. Psychological and pharmacological aids are
available to help people quit smoking, although success rates are relatively
low. As part of the wider tobacco control movement, there have been numerous
advertising campaigns, smoking restriction policies, tobacco taxes, and other
strategies to encourage people to quit smoking. Tobacco use is a major cause of
death worldwide, according to the World Health Organization.