How to quit smoking and reduce your risk of 16 cancers

Most of us are aware of the link between tobacco and lung cancer, but did you know that smoking can cause 15 other types of cancers as well? Smoking accounts for 13% of all cancer related diagnoses in Australia, however, it is also the largest preventable cause of cancer.

Read about the 16 cancers caused by smoking.

Tobacco smoking is known as a modifiable risk factor for health, meaning it is something we can change in our day-to-day life. Once you do quit smoking, not only will this contribute to your long-term health, but you will start to see immediate health benefits as well.

Many people quit smoking without any support, but you may benefit from additional support and information if you have:

• experienced strong withdrawal symptoms or cravings when trying to quit in the past
• smoke 10 or more cigarettes per day
• smoke first thing when you wake up in the morning.

Contact NSW Quitline

The NSW Quitline (13 7848 – 13 QUIT) is a free and confidential phone call with a counsellor that is customised to your needs in order to better help you succeed in quitting smoking.

Download the My QuitBuddy app

If you are someone who is tech-savvy, the My QuitBuddy app gives you daily quitting tips, motivational notifications, reminders and a countdown to help you keep on track.

Talk to your GP

Another option is talking to your GP about any prescription medications they can suggest. This may seem like a daunting option, however, rest assured that your GP is there to help you to achieve your health goals and quit smoking.

Remember, quitting smoking not only benefits your health but the health and wellbeing of family and those close to you by avoiding exposing them to second-hand smoke.

For more information about quitting smoking, visit our Smoking section. If you have questions, email the Tobacco Control Unit on tacklingtobacco@nswcc.org.au or call 02 9334 1911.