RODALE NEWS, EMMAUS, PA—People who otherwise wouldn’t quit smoking are more easily persuaded to quit after learning that secondhand smoke can harm their pet, according to a study recently published in the journal Tobacco Control.
THE DETAILS: Researchers conducted a Web-based survey of 3,293 adult pet owners; 21% were smokers and another 27% lived with at least one smoker. Nearly one-third of the smokers said they would try to quit after seeing research that linked human smoking to pet health problems. And another 20% said they would enforce a no-smoking ban inside the home. Previous studies linked secondhand smoke to an increased risk of lymphoma in cats and nasal and lung cancers in dogs. It’s also the leading cause of lung cancer in humans, by the way.
WHAT IT MEANS: It’s widely known that smoking isn’t good for the folks doing the puffing, or anyone around them—which, you now know, includes a smoker’s four-legged friends as well as children and other adults. It may seem strange that some people are more motivated to save a Lab’s lungs than their own, but anything that leads to less smoking is a good thing in our book. Plus, quitting can save you upwards of $2,000 a year, and who couldn’t use that these days?
To get help, find a program that works for you:
• Call a quit line. If you’re struggling to quit, remember you’re not alone: There are plenty of people who want to help you. The American Cancer Society suggests checking with your employer, health-insurance company, or local hospital to find a free program to help you quit. Or, call ACS at 800-ACS-2345.
• Check out the program. If you’re going to attend a program to help you stop smoking, try to find one with 4 to 7 sessions that last 20 to 30 minutes each. The program should last for at least 2 weeks, preferably longer. Also, check to make sure the leader is trained in smoking cessation.
• Have a plan. For a complete guide to quitting smoking, visit The American Cancer Society’s online plan.
• Go for a walk, breathe. Exercise is a known stress-buster, something you’re going to need while quitting smoking. ACS suggests deep-breathing exercises to help combat nicotine cravings: Breathe deeply, imagine your lungs filling with clean air, and remind yourself of all the reasons you want to quit.