As a behavioral health-care provider, I was disturbed by the July 29 Politics & the Nation article “FDA aims to lower nicotine in cigarettes to lessen addiction.”
Unless the Food and Drug Administration forces an immediate and significant nicotine reduction level in cigarettes, smokers will undoubtedly just smoke more cigarettes. Instead of improving overall health, there would be improvement only in profits for the tobacco industry. According to The Post’s article, a 2015 research study supports my concerns.
Despite the overreliance upon pharmacological interventions for the treatment of nicotine dependence, it has been known for decades that hypnosis remains one of the most effective ways to quit smoking. In addition to hypnosis, cytisine is an over-the-counter, non-prescription option for smoking cessation . Cytisine is significantly less expensive and is considered even more effective than today’s popular treatment options.
Regarding the FDA’s proposal, I believe that its mission would be better served by promoting a combination of cytisine and hypnosis as today’s best way to become smoke-free.
Gerald A. Solfanelli, Dunmore, Pa.
The writer, a certified hypnotherapist, is a professional smoking cessation counselor and psychologist.