Quit Smoking
Health Professionals

Brief intervention is effective in smoking cessation

Smoking tobacco remains the leading cause of preventable death in Canada. Currently, over 50% of all smokers are considering quitting within the next 6 months. Brief, but effective interventions by physicians, dentists, pharmacists and other health care professionals can positively impact smoking cessation with patients.

Physicians and dentists have an enormous influence on the health of their patients while pharmacists are often the most accessible members of the health care team.

Ask patients or clients about their thoughts and feelings towards smoking. Include questions about whether they have thought about or are currently thinking about quitting.

Advise patients or clients to quit smoking. Talk to them about the health benefits of quitting in the short, medium and long-term. Recommend they develop a quit plan and to set a quit date.

Assist patients or clients in their quit decision. Offer support, tips for quitting and ask them to consider nicotine replacement therapy or medication, if appropriate.

Arrange for follow-up and/or refer them to Smokers' Helpline 1-877-513-5333 for additional counselling and support.   

Quit rates are not the only measure of success in stop-smoking interventions. Smokers will make an average of 5 to 7 quit attempts before they achieve a maintained long-term cessation.  

Slips and relapses are normal; however, the process of quitting is significant.

Interventions are successful even if patients or clients reflect on their reasons for smoking, their health and the health of those around them or if they make a quit plan.

Smoking is difficult to overcome and may require brief, repeated interventions over many years. The cumulative effect of various health care provider interventions with patients or clients can be significant in leading to a tobacco-free life.

To learn more about tobacco intervention for healthcare providers visit Programs, Services, Resources  for a listing of tobacco cessation links.