OHSU Knight Cancer Institute

OHSU Knight Cancer Institute

Quit Smoking

You can crush the urge to smoke.

The best thing you can do for your health

Most people who smoke, vape or chew tobacco want to quit and wish they had never started. Quitting is hard. But it's easier when you have help. We can offer support and resources to ease your nicotine withdrawal symptoms and get you on the road to freedom from tobacco.

Ready to get started?

  • Send us an email at quittobacco@ohsu.edu. Include a contact number. One of our certified specialists will reach out to help you make a plan.
  • Call 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-800-784-8669)
  • Ask your provider to connect you with a certified specialist.

How to quit smoking or vaping

Some people quit all at once. Some taper down gradually. The best approach depends on you, but successful strategies include these steps:

Make a plan

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Nicotine addiction is real. Counseling, medication and support can double your chances of quitting successfully. Contact us for support.

Set a date

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This is a big change. Give yourself a couple of weeks to get ready. Tell people about your plan. Once you’ve set a date to quit, stick to it.

Don’t give up

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The average smoker tries to quit 6-9 times before they quit for good. Hang in there. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. Each try gets you closer to quitting for good. 

How we can help

Quitting without support has a success rate of 4-7%. You can double your chance of success by using our resources:

  • Counseling: It’s helpful to talk with someone. Our tobacco treatment specialists will help you make a plan and set yourself up for success.
  • Medication: Several drugs can help you through nicotine withdrawal, some without a prescription. We can help you get the right drug for your situation.
  • Accountability: Your chance of success goes up when you have someone to check in with.
  • Follow-up: We can help you with troubleshooting and brainstorming. 

Health benefits of quitting smoking

Your health gets better within hours of your last cigarette. Even people who have smoked for years or smoked heavily can improve their health by quitting.

  • You improve your health and life expectancy.
  • You lower your risk of several types of cancer.
  • You lower your risk of cardiovascular diseases.
  • You lower your risk of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
  • You lower the risk of some poor reproductive health outcomes.

Learn more about the benefits of quitting

Benefits for cancer patients

  • You have a better chance of successful cancer treatment.
  • You may have fewer side effects from surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
  •  You can reduce your risk of developing another cancer.
  •  You may recover from treatment faster.
  • You can lower your risk of developing an infection.
  • You may be able to breathe more easily.
  • You may have more energy.
  • You may live longer and improve your overall quality of life.

Ready to get started?

You have three ways to get started:

  • Send us an email at quittobacco@ohsu.edu. Include a contact number. One of our certified specialists will reach out to help you make a plan.
  • Call 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-800-784-8669)
  • Ask your provider to connect you with a certified specialist.

More resources