Smoking remains one of the leading preventable causes of cancer and premature death in Canada. Tobacco use is directly linked to several types of cancer, with the risk increasing based on duration and intensity of smoking. A self-care approach to smoking cessation, along with adherence to Canadian guidelines and cancer screening recommendations, is essential in reducing the burden of smoking-related cancers.
Cancers related to smoking
Smoking is associated with an increased risk of developing multiple types of cancer, including but not limited to:
- Lung cancer (leading cause of cancer death in smokers)
- Mouth and throat cancer (including oral, laryngeal, and pharyngeal cancers)
- Esophageal cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Liver cancer
- Cervical cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Acute myeloid leukemia
Benefits of smoking cessation
- Lower risk of stomach ulcers: Your stomach heals better, reducing painful ulcers.
- Stronger bones: Less chance of weak or brittle bones as you age.
- Fewer lung infections: You’ll cough less and get sick less often.
- Improved sexual health: Better blood flow means improved performance and satisfaction.
- Healthier family and roommates: The people around you breathe cleaner air.
- Lower risk of heart attack and heart disease: Your heart stays healthier.
- Lower risk of stroke: Your brain gets better blood flow, reducing stroke chances.
- Faster healing: Cuts, wounds, and surgeries heal more quickly.
- Lower risk of lung disease (COPD): You breathe easier and have fewer lung problems.
- Better blood circulation: Less risk of blocked arteries and leg pain.
- Stronger sense of smell and taste: Food smells and tastes better.
- Longer life expectancy: You reduce your risk of dying early.
- More energy for exercise: You’ll feel stronger and breathe easier during physical activity.
- Better overall quality of life: More energy, fewer illnesses, and improved well-being.
Cancer risk reduction:
- Lower risk of lung cancer: Your lungs start healing, and your risk drops over time.
- Lower risk of throat and mouth cancer: No more harmful smoke damaging these areas.
- Lower risk of bladder cancer: Your body flushes out fewer cancer-causing chemicals.
- Lower risk of pancreatic cancer: Your pancreas functions better without tobacco toxins.
- Lower risk of cervical cancer: Women who quit smoking reduce their chances of developing this cancer.
- Lower risk of esophageal cancer: Your food pipe stays healthier without tobacco irritation.
- Lower risk of kidney cancer: Your kidneys filter toxins more effectively.
Canadian guidelines on smoking cessation
Health Canada and the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care recommend a structured approach to smoking cessation, which includes:
- Brief interventions: Health professionals should assess smoking status at every visit and provide behavioural support. Be open to conversations about smoking cessation.
- Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT): Use of patches, gums, inhalers, and lozenges to reduce withdrawal symptoms. Your pharmacist can give you these medications and support you on their usage without a prescription from your doctor.
- Pharmacological aids: Medications like varenicline (Champix) and bupropion (Zyban) are recommended for those struggling with quitting. You can ask your doctor about these medications.
- Behavioural therapy: Counselling, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) increase long-term cessation success. When you are ready to quit, talk to your family doctor and they can refer you for this counselling program.
- Digital and self-help tools: Mobile apps, quit-lines (e.g. Smokers’ Helpline), and online resources to aid in self-care strategies. It is good to know that your doctor can provide direct access to many of the resources in BC
- Community support: Group support programs and peer counselling are effective in maintaining long-term cessation.
Cancer screening recommendations (Health Canada)
For individuals with a history of smoking, regular cancer screening is vital for early detection and improved treatment outcomes. Health Canada recommends:
- Lung cancer screening: Low-dose CT scans for adults aged 55–74 years with a history of heavy smoking (minimum 30 pack-years).
- Oral cancer screening: Routine dental check-ups with oral examinations for those at high risk.
- Bladder cancer screening: Urinalysis and cystoscopy for individuals with a history of smoking and other risk factors.
- Cervical cancer screening: Pap tests every three years for women aged 25–69 years. HPV self-testing is now available in B.C.; talk to a health care provider about how to get the kit.
- Colorectal cancer screening: Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) every two years or a colonoscopy every 10 years for individuals aged 50–74.
A proactive self-care approach to smoking cessation is crucial in preventing smoking-related cancers. Canadian guidelines emphasize a combination of behavioural, pharmacological, and community support strategies. Additionally, adherence to cancer screening recommendations ensures early detection and better health outcomes. Quitting smoking doesn’t just add years to your life, it makes those years healthier and more enjoyable. Quitting smoking today is a significant step toward a healthier, cancer-free future.
For support and resources, visit Health Canada’s Smoking Cessation Programs (https://bit.ly/4l9rqBb) or contact Smokers’ Helpline (1-866-366-3667).
