[Smoking cessation therapy in thoracic oncology]

In France, the number of tobacco-related deaths is estimated at 73,000 per year, including 44,000 from cancer and more than 20,000 from lung cancer (LC). Smoking cessation is the most effective measure to reduce the epidemic of LC, but it is also important in the management of patients with LC regardless on stage. In localized cancers, continuing to smoke is associated with decreased survival by increasing the risk of recurrence and of developing a second cancer. During the perioperative period, smoking cessation reduces infectious complications and length of hospitalization. At all stages of the cancer, smoking cessation improves dyspnoea and appetite, and reduces fatigue, leading to improved quality of life. Tobacco addiction causes a strong physical, psychological and behavioral dependence, explaining the high rate of recurrence at 1year of approximately 80%. Nicotine replacement therapy is indicated in cases of physical addiction to nicotine. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps the smoker to get rid of the smoking habit and is important in preventing relapse.