CANBERRA–Smokers should make a new year's resolution to give up the habit, but take time to prepare before going cold turkey, health groups say.
The Australian Medical Association suggests smokers make a clean start at the beginning of the year.
"Quitting will be the best thing smokers can do for their health, and for the health of those around them," AMA president Dr Rosanna Capolingua said.
Smoking causes a number of life-threatening and debilitating conditions including lung, breast and cervical cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis and impotence, and can also harm family members or others exposed to smoke.
About 19,000 people die each year from smoking-related diseases.
Anti-smoking organisation Quit said taking a couple of weeks to prepare could help quitters learn useful strategies that would help their chance of succeeding.
Waiting until after the new year's celebrations were over also reduced temptation, Quit said.
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners urged people to speak to their GPs for advice.
"Resolving to quit smoking requires a solid support network and sound advice, which starts with your general practitioner," president Dr Vasantha Preetham said.
The college said the new year was also a perfect time to focus on improving general health.
The GP group urged people to reduce their alcohol intake, improve their diet by eating more fruit and vegetables and less fat, sugar and salt, exercise more and make changes that boost self-esteem and general mental health.
"Whether it is spending more time with friends and family, doing volunteer work or taking time out for yourself, it is important to incorporate your total well-being into any changes you make for the new year," Dr Preetham said.
"Talk to your general practitioner about any concerns you have with your mental health and resolve to be happy."
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