The role of smoking cessation in lung cancer patients

Lung cancer is the leading cause of death from cancer. The association of the disease with smoking is undeniable, and in the majority of cases the patients are active or former smokers. The continuation of smoking in patients with lung cancer reduces the survival and increases the risk of disease recurrence and second primary tumor incidence. Furthermore, it reduces the response to chemotherapy and or radiotherapy, delays the healing time of surgical wounds, increases the risk of postoperative complications and finally causes exacerbation of chronic diseases from which the patient may be suffering. As has been documented that smoking cessation has multiple and significant benefits for patients with lung cancer, the success of this goal in this specific patient population is a challenge. It seems that the diagnosis is a powerful incentive for patients to stop smoking, but many will require organized and systematic help. Health professionals should have an active role and education on smoking cessation methods. The opportunity to participate in smoking cessation programs should be offered to all patients and their relatives who wish to stop smoking. The treatment for smoking cessation including counseling, behavioral therapy, medication and regular monitoring, should be an integral part of treating patients with lung cancer.