No habit is as dangerous as is smoking. That’s because smoking causes more serious diseases than does any other lifestyle choice.

Smoking causes cancers of the lung, bladder, mouth and throat. It also causes heart and lung disease and strokes. Quitting smoking is a key to avoiding these deadly diseases.

Quitting smoking isn’t easy. But studies show that half off all the people who have ever smoked have eventually quit. It’s not too late for you to quit, too.

If you are ready to quit smoking, there are steps you can take to make the process as easy as possible. First, pick a specific date. This will provide you with more motivation.

Secondly, you may consider starting slowly, perhaps by refraining from smoking in places where you spend a significant amount of time. This could be your home, your office or your car.

Make sure to tell others about your decision to quite smoking. You’ll need the support of others when the quitting gets tough.

You may want to explore nicotine replacement products such as gum, patches, sprays or inhalers. Your doctor should have the information you need to make an informed decision on whether these products are right for you.

If you have managed to quit smoking, don’t tempt yourself. Don’t ever take another puff. And try to stay away from people who are smoking.

And don’t forget: Most people have to try several times before successfully quitting smoking. If you’ve failed one or more times, don’t give up. You can always try again. Your health depends on it.