[The contribution of social restrictions to smoking cessation]

This is a qualitative study that analyzed how social restrictions contribute to the cessation of smoking. Sixteen individuals from Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil in abstinence for more than six months with a dependence of > or = 5 in the Fagerström scale were interviewed. Content analysis showed that social restrictions to smoking contributed to smoking cessation and were translated into regulations, as well as in the awareness of the interference of smoking in social interactions. Although these restrictions could be uncomfortable for smokers, they had the effect of helping to mobilize and educate them in the smoking cessation process. Faced to the hard task of quitting smoking, we realize the responsibility of health professionals to support and reinforce smokers and nonsmokers on the importance of giving up the habit.