How to help your patients quit: Practice-based strategies for smoking cessation

Abstract: A behavior change workshop was conducted during the regional meeting of Wonca in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in April 2002. It highlighted that general practitioners and primary care workers are key agents in facilitating smoking cessation. Participants from a variety of Asia Pacific countries shared their experiences regarding the problems associated with smoking cessation. Barriers to smoking cessation can be divided into ‘Patient’, ‘Doctor’ and ‘System’. Practice-based strategies for smoking cessation are effective and will assist the general practitioner/family physician in helping patients quit smoking. Effective implementation requires a supportive infrastructure.