How can a 52-year-old woman with COPD quit smoking?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 52-year-old woman. I have smoked a pack a day since the age of 20. My father died of lung cancer at the age of 64. I have tried quitting twice with patches and gum, but I always went back. I have a chronic cough and mild COPD on spirometry. My last chest X-ray showed hyperinflation. My doctor says quitting now can still improve lung function and reduce cancer risk. They suggested varenicline or nicotine replacement again, plus counseling. I am worried about withdrawal, weight gain, and mood swings when I quit. Are there newer or more effective ways to stay smoke-free long term?

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understood your concern.

You are absolutely right that quitting now will still make a major difference, because stopping smoking at your age can slow chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) progression, improve breathing, and significantly lower your lung cancer and heart disease risk. Relapse is very common, but combining medications with behavioral support gives the best long-term success.

Varenicline (Chantix) is one of the most effective options, often more successful than patches or gum alone, especially when paired with counseling. Some people benefit from a combination of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) (for example, using a patch for steady coverage plus gum or lozenges for breakthrough cravings).

If you are worried about mood swings or weight gain, strategies like Bupropion (Zyban), which helps reduce withdrawal symptoms, prevents weight gain, and supports mood, can be considered, especially since it is also approved for smoking cessation. Beyond medications, structured quit programs, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), support groups, and even newer tools like smartphone-based quit applications or text-message coaching have been shown to boost success rates.

For cravings, distraction techniques, exercise, and keeping your hands and mouth busy (like with sugar-free mints or straws) can help. Since you already have mild COPD, close follow-up with your doctor for lung function, vaccines (like influenza and pneumococcal vaccines), and early screening for lung cancer may also be worthwhile.

I hope that this answers your query.

Kindly follow up if you have more doubts.

Thank you.