Doctors must help smokers quit

Dear editor

The role of doctors is essential to convincing smokers to quit. However, this is easier said than done. Doctors, globally and especially in Pakistan, seem to be least concerned with their smoker patients. Doctors in Pakistan generally have limited knowledge about smoking cessation, with widespread misconceptions about nicotine and inadequate training in cessation techniques. Studies show that most physicians wrongly believe nicotine itself causes cancer, while structured workshops significantly improve their confidence and skills in cessation counseling. This needs to change. Adult smokers need help to quit. If this help comes from doctors, they will be more inclined to listen and act on quitting smoking. Doctors must be sensitized to the principles of smoking cessation and actively engaged in efforts to promote it, highlighting its potential to lower smoking prevalence.