Philippines: ''Love the smoker, hate the smoke''

Source from:  Manila Bulletin 02/16/2015

Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Alliance of the Philippines Executive Director Maricar Limpin stressed that smoking should be frowned upon and not the smoker, who instead should be afforded love and gentle reminders on the various ills of the habit.

"Let's make friends with them, give them more love and care. The person is not our enemy. Out only enemy is the smoke coming from the lighted cigarettes," Limpin said.

Earlier, the Department of Health (DOH), in its Bulletin on second hand smoke, noted that "cigarette smoke contains more than 7,000 chemicals which cause cancer, heart disease, difficulties in breathing, and other ailments."

"And because we love the smokers, we want them to have a longer life, we need to help them…. To finally quit, the smokers need the support of their family, friends, and workmates," Limpin added.

Moreover, there are steps to follow if one wants to stop smoking, and start living a healthy life - the "Quit Smoking Plan" with the acronym "START."

"START" means: "Set date of quitting," "Tell your family your plan," "Anticipate and plan your goal," "Remove cigarettes from your house, car, or office," and "Talk to your doctor of your plan."

Limpin said anyone can quit smoking, adding that she also used to be a smoker.

"I was a former smoker but I managed to quit. I personally know how difficult it is to quit but I can also tell you that it can be done," Limpin stressed. Enditem