Rehabilitation of the Chronic Smoker: Comprehensive Strategies for Cessation and Harm Reduction in Resistant Populations

Tobacco smoking remains the leading preventable cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with over 8 million deaths annually attributed to its direct and indirect effects (WHO, 2021). Despite the global public health emphasis on cessation, a substantial proportion of smokers—particularly those with long-term, heavy use—remain either unwilling or unable to quit. These individuals are at risk of suffering from tobacco-related diseases including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cardiovascular disorders, lung cancer and mental health comorbidities. Conventional cessation strategies, while foundational, may be insufficient in these cases, necessitating a broader, rehabilitative approach that includes both abstinence-based in addition to harm reduction pathways.