Smokers' Math

MATH FOR SMOKERS: (I know this because I was one)

Cigarettes for the year:

$8 / pack @ 1 pack a day = $2920 / year x 10 years = $29,200.00

$12 / pack @ 1 pack a day = $4380 / year x 10 years = $43,800.00

The average heart attack cost:

$22K - 28K for inpatient care per event

Emergency visit - $1651 on average

Long term care: $2,000 / year

Surgery can be in excess of $100,000

The average cost of a stroke:

The average cost varies significantly, but inpatient hospitalization can range from approximately $20,396 to 43,652. The lifetime cost for an ischemic stroke is estimated at around $140,048.

Not mentioned are the costs of lost wages during hospitalization.

SMOKING CESSATION COSTS:

Nicotine patches: $25-$50 (give you weird dreams but help)

Nicotine gum: $15 - 40 (tastes nasty but also help)

Varenicline (brand name: Chantix) :$120 for the maintenance dose (may have dangerous side effects) has worked for some people

Smoking cessation hypnosis sessions $75 - 300 per hour (more than one session is recommended for the best success).

Hypnosis can also help prevent post-cessation weight gain which none of the other products do. It can be used with Nicotine patches or gum.

Not for use on people with brain damage or severe mental health conditions.

Note the lack of commas in the numbers regarding smoking cessation!

Smoking cessation products & services are often an IRS 213D eligible expense for FSA, HSA, and some HRA plans.

The most effective way to quit smoking is a combination of behavioral counseling and medication, along with strong social support.

The most important key to stopping starts in your mind: you have to want to.