Lung cancer: the oncologist's role in smoking cessation

Cigarette smoking is by far the most common preventable cause of lung cancer in our society, and is therefore responsible for the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women. Physicians are uniquely positioned to impact smoking rates, but frequently fail to address the issue in practice because of competing concerns and a sense of frustration. Oncologists, though not typically thought of as preventive care providers, can be empowered to advocate for more effective smoking cessation strategies, and to implement treatment guidelines in their practice in an effort to improve cancer outcomes in their community. Pharmacologic and behavioral interventions for smokers, including the role of nicotine replacement therapies and bupropion, and their relevance to oncologic practice are reviewed.