Did you know that quitting smoking before the age of 40 reduces health risks by 90%?
Most smokers would like to quit. As a rule, however, they feel unsure and unmotivated, sometimes because of previous failed attempts or fluctuating motivation.
A specialist consultation helps strengthen motivation and the chances of quitting successfully.
The benefits of quitting smoking
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Physical
better taste and smell, lower risk of disease.
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Psychological
improved self-esteem and confidence in your own abilities.
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Socio-economic
a better household budget and greater social acceptance.
What happens when you stop smoking:
after 20 minutes, your heart rate drops;
after 2 weeks to 3 months, your risk of heart attack falls, as do coughing and tiredness;
after 1 year, your risk of coronary heart disease is halved;
after 5 years, your risk of stroke is the same as a non-smoker's;
after 10 years, your risk of lung cancer is about half that of a smoker;
The risk of cancer of the mouth, throat, oesophagus, bladder, kidney and pancreas also falls considerably;
Mortality from peripheral arterial disease, cervical cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is reduced.
Our solutions
Smoking Cessation Consultation
This specialist consultation strengthens motivation and increases the chances of quitting. It is carried out by a pulmonologist experienced in this field.
With the right practical advice and, where appropriate, medication, motivational strategies, education on healthy habits and lifestyle and/or psychological support, there are countless success stories.
The consultation includes an initial in-person assessment with a detailed medical history and examination, followed by a video consultation to review progress and, if needed, adjust treatment and behavioural strategies.
Frequently asked questions about the smoking cessation consultation
I've tried to quit several times. Is it worth trying again?
Yes. Most people who quit for good have made several attempts before. Each attempt teaches you what works and what to do differently, and specialist support increases your chances of success.
Will I need medication?
It depends on your level of dependence and your preference. When indicated, medication reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms. The doctor explains the options and adjusts treatment throughout follow-up.
Will I put on weight if I quit?
Some weight gain is common, but it can be limited with the right diet and physical activity. The benefits of quitting far outweigh a few extra kilos.
Do e-cigarettes or heated tobacco help you quit?
They are not risk-free, and many people end up using both. At the consultation we discuss the best-evidenced alternatives for giving up nicotine for good.
What does follow-up involve?
It starts with an in-person consultation, with a medical history and examination, followed by video consultations to review progress and adjust the plan.
Smoking cessation is part of Lifestyle Medicine, the field that works on the habits that most influence health: diet, physical activity, sleep, stress management and substance use. Learn more about Dr Rafaela Campanha and about our sleep medicine consultation.
Dr Rafaela Campanha
Specialist in Pulmonology (licence no. 52855)
Accredited in Lifestyle Medicine (Foundations of Lifestyle Medicine – American College of Lifestyle Medicine)
PhD student – Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon
Professional experience:
Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sleep and Lifestyle Medicine at Clínica Myalgia (since 2020).
Pulmonology Department, Hospital Vila Franca de Xira (since 2018).
Pulmonology residency at Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Ocidental (2012-2018)
Postgraduate degrees:
European Diploma in Adult Respiratory Medicine – HERMES (September 2019)
Foundations of Lifestyle Medicine – American College of Lifestyle Medicine (2023)
Book your consultation or sleep study and start the MYALGIA® method.
For bookings or further information, call us (216 036 437 Mon–Fri, 08:00–20:00) or use our contact form. We'll get back to you shortly.
