Over 400,000 American die each year from the effects of smoking cigarettes. Some of these deaths result from heart disease that was caused by smoking. In fact, cigarette smoking is the major cause of heart disease and stroke in this country. The risk increases with the number of cigarettes smoked per day. Smokers who quit smoking decrease their risk of heart disease by 50 percent compared to people who do not quit. And just three years after quitting, the former smoker's risk of heart attack drops to the same level of those who have never smoked.

Given the dangers of smoking to a healthy heart, why wouldn't a person want to quit smoking? Some people are worried about gaining weight. We may even tell ourselves that being overweight is just as dangerous as smoking! But the truth is, most people who stop smoking gain only five to fifteen pounds. Only a small number of those who quit smoking gain more than 20 pounds. It is possible to stop smoking and still maintain a desirable weight.

There are lots of resources available that can help you learn how to eat properly when you quit smoking so that you will not gain weight. One thing you will probably hear is that exercising seems to help. Exercise helps with the craving, and it also builds muscles and burns extra calories. Do not let a fear of weight gain keep you or someone you love from quitting. Decide to quit smoking now; your heart will thank you for it!

There are many different methods that people use to get off cigarettes. Some people have good success with nicotine gum or with the nicotine patch. The nicotine patch is now available over-the-counter, but as with any nicotine product, it's important to take it carefully. Nicotine is a very powerful drug, so be sure to never smoke while using these products.

Other people have success with acupuncture, support groups, or hypnosis. If you're confused about which method is best for you, consult with your healthcare provider. Talk to friends or family members who have quit smoking to see how they did it. Then pick one method and stick with it. Do not get discouraged if you've tried to quit before and were unsuccessful. Most former smokers had to quit many times before quitting for good. In fact, we now think that this is good "practice" for quitting the final time.

For additional information, contact the American Lung Association office in your community or call them at (800) LUNG-USA.

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