Many smokers don't seek doctor's help (USA)

Twenty-one percent of U.S. smokers never talk to a healthcare provider about their smoking, a survey indicates. Cheryl G. Healton, president and chief executive officer of the American Legacy Foundation says on average, smokers make six to 9 attempts to kick the habit in a lifetime. "Even more alarming is that when conversations do take place about smoking, patients don't seem to be getting the information they need to begin a successful quit attempt," Healton says in a statement. National government guidelines state that the most effective way to quit smoking is through a combination of medication and counseling. Fifty-two percent of the respondents said they think healthcare providers should help them quit smoking. While talking to their healthcare providers about smoking, 54 percent of respondents felt the negative emotions of guilt, uneasiness, annoyance, pressure or embarrassment, while just 28 percent reported the positive feelings of motivation, pleasure, or confidence, Healton said. The survey was conducted online by Harris Interactive on behalf of The American Legacy Foundation from November 13-December 12, 2008 among 1,012 U.S. adults, who smoke cigarettes at least occasionally. No margin of error was provided. - UPI