Rung 3 · Moderate
Quitting smoking after a lung cancer diagnosis
Linked to longer survival; it's never too late.
Side-effect supportYou can do this
What studies found
In a study of 517 smokers with stage IA to IIIA non-small cell lung cancer, those who quit after diagnosis had median survival of 6.6 years versus 4.8 years for those who kept smoking, and 5-year survival of 60.6% versus 48.6%.
The catch
Observational, so other differences between the groups may play a part.
What to do
Ask your care team for quit-smoking help as part of treatment.
Sources
Rung 3 of 5, Moderate: Consistent observational studies or small trials, not yet confirmed by large trials. How we score
To take it to your doctor, print this page.
Step by step
For the whole picture, from prevention and screening to treatment and life after, see the lung cancer page.
Related
- Early palliative care alongside treatmentRung 4 · StrongWith your doctorRung 4 · StrongSide-effect supportWith your doctor
- Exercise during and after any cancer treatmentRung 5 · EstablishedYou can do thisRung 5 · EstablishedSide-effect supportYou can do this
- Acupuncture for cancer painRung 4 · StrongWith your doctorRung 4 · StrongSide-effect supportWith your doctor
- Cannabinoids for chemotherapy nauseaRung 3 · ModerateWith your doctorRung 3 · ModerateSide-effect supportWith your doctor
- Healthy eating pattern after breast cancerRung 3 · ModerateYou can do thisRung 3 · ModerateSide-effect supportYou can do this