Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.
It’s the time of year when many of us vow to turn over a new leaf in the new year and improve ourselves. This week on Health Watch, we’ll talk about ways to make our lives better — and healthier.
One thing many people swear to do at the new year is to quit smoking. Dr. Yvonne Coyle, an oncologist at UT Southwestern Medical Center, says that’s something you may not be able to do on your own. Motivation is key to success, but you may also need practical advice from your doctor so you can find the smoking cessation program that’s right for you. Support from others who are going through the same thing may also help you.
However you do it, quitting smoking is well worth the effort. If you can quit smoking before you’re 50, by the time you’re 64 you’ll be back to having the same risk of death as someone who never smoked.
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December 2006
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