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SMOKING CESSATION – WHAT’S NEW?

ANCUȚA-ALINA CONSTANTIN *, FLORIN DUMITRU MIHĂLȚAN

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Tobacco cessation represents a multifaceted approach involving patients who often don't neatly fit into classic prototypes. Researchers found that current smokers experience a more than 10-year reduction in life expectancy compared to non-smokers, and more than half make an attempt each year, but less than 10% manage to stay smoke-free for at least 6 months. Therefore, it's recommended to employ a combination of methods and strategies, ranging from questionnaires to established medications. The role of the medical staff is and remains vital in this context. Nicotine is a potent drug due to its rapid absorption and swift diffusion into the central nervous system, and quitting nicotine leads to important consequences, such as craving, drug-seeking behaviour and withdrawal symptoms. Negative affective states also emerge, characterized by symptoms like depressed mood, anxiety, irritability and insomnia. Hierarchical multiple regression models have revealed that extraversion, neuroticism, conscientiousness and age are among the predictors of daily cigarette consumption. The authors discuss both traditional and innovative opportunities to expedite this process, while analysing the potential to enhance the compliance of healthcare providers and patients. Smoking cessation, the process of quitting smoking, can be approached through both pharmacological (medication-based) and non-pharmacological (behavioural and supportive) methods. The choice of approach or combination of approaches depends on individual preferences and needs.