Smoking
Why is smoking reduction/quitting important?
Smokers who have surgery are at higher risk for several complications. You can change this!
Reducing or quitting smoking before surgery decreases:
- the amount of time spent in hospital
- the risk of heart complications
- the risk of pneumonia after surgery
- the risk of infection
- the risk of needing mechanical ventilation after surgery
How much time is needed?
If you want to quit or reduce smoking, let's start your plan early to help you create the best possible outcome for your surgery.
However, even avoiding all inhaled substances 24 hours before surgery will improve the level of oxygen in your blood.
Where can I get support?
Quit now
Quit now is a free quit smoking program delivered by the BC Lung Association. The following link will take you to their website where you can create a free account and recieve help to stop smoking or answer questions you may have.
Additional resources
Dr. Mike Evans stop smoking video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z16vhtjWKL0
Tell your Family Doctor that you are wanting to reduce or quit smoking - they can support you.
Helping cover the cost.
The B.C. Smoking Cessation Program helps eligible B.C. residents cover the cost of smoking reduction/quitting by supplying a:
- Free 3 month supply of either nicotine gum or patches or
- Prescription for smoking-reduction drugs with a Pharmacist or General Practitioner's prescription.
Keeping track of your progress
We have a patient passport available for you to print off and keep a written record of what you want to work on. Keeping a journal helps you stay focused and reach your goals.