About This Site

This site draws on evidence from credible sources. The field of tobacco control is filled with misinformation, manipulation and bias. Tobacco companies and marketers may provide some of the same information as you see here, but their goal is to sell you an idea or a product. Not-for-profit organizations reflect the biases of the people who fund them. Many professional organizations remain silent to avoid becoming involved in controversy. Government sources can often be politicized (For example: the recent elimination of the CDC’s Office on Smoking and Health). Different countries come to radically different conclusions from the same data. Who can you trust?

I affirm that I have no conflicts of interest and that this site does not generate revenue.

In my career across clinical practice, health insurance companies, and academic medicine, I have learned that perfect information is rare—but action can’t wait. My bias is towards action. I believe we must act when there is good evidence that supports it. Waiting for perfect information can obstruct worthy interventions. My goal is to provide sufficient information to allow anyone to make an informed decision. Sometimes I offer my opinion on what I believe is the best choice.

People often ask for my recommendations, but my goal is to provide sufficient information that anyone can make up their minds for themselves. But here goes:

• Chose the least toxic form of nicotine; the best option is none.

• The best approach to quitting is to use both medication and counseling.

• The best medication for quitting is varenicline.

• Your doctor may ask if you are ready to quit at this time. Even if you don’t believe you are ready consider a trial of medication (varenicline). The medication reduces cravings and without cravings for nicotine, you will find a new level of readiness.

— Edward Anselm, MD