Smoking cessation strategies for cardiovascular patients

Cigarette smoking is one of the key modifiable risk factors for ill health. The World Health Organization states that tobacco kills more than 8 million people a year worldwide, and that up to half of all tobacco users who do not quit will die as a result of their habit. As well as being linked to cardiovascular and respiratory conditions, smoking is associated with joint disease, diabetes, cancers and health inequalities. A combination of behavioural support and pharmacological interventions is most likely to result in a successful quit attempt, and new guidance from National Institute for Health and Care Excellence on smoking cessation highlights the role of primary and secondary care staff in supporting people to quit. It is essential that all healthcare workers are aware of the risks associated with tobacco use and can confidently offer advice and support to people with nicotine addiction.