How many do or have been smokers?

Please don't scold me as I know all the dangers of smoking. I do have prostrate cancer and scheduled for laporoscopic sugery the 1st of April. I have been, not a heavy smoker, but have smoked most of my life. I know it's in contrast but I've also been a dedicated exerciser even running marathons. I have been a runner since I was 25 years old. Since my diagnosis I am trying to quit and have cut down to 5-8 cigs. a day. Just wondering if any others are smokers diagnosed with prostrate cancer and are in my situation of cutting down with the intention of quitting. I have to admit.  Dealing with what is coming up and adding to that trying to quit smoking cold turkey is a little much for me. My doctor has really not said anything to me about the amount I smoke or harping at me to quit....yet. 

I smoked for over 25 years and quit almost 10 years ago. I quit cold turkey, but under the circumstances you might consider one of the newer aids. Best of luck with everything.

I quit a 30 year pack-a-day habit about 3 years ago. It wasn't my first attempt...I think it was my third serious one. Twice I used the patch, and as it finally took, I would recommend it heartily. It allows you to deal with the habit while it weans you from the addiction.

Also...in Canada, you can buy generic ones that are substantially cheaper than the 'name brands'.

As to the wisdom of quitting now? Ask your doctor about the competing stress factors...that of quitting as piggybacked on the treatment as opposed to smoking while dealing with the PCa.

All I can say is that I sure coulda' used a smoke after the brachy...

Hi Sparky,

Me too; I was a smoker since high school, but after my daVinci procedure I've quite. No magic pills, gum, patches or any of that junk. I just tappered of to about 3-5 butts a day, and finally desided that was enough. Don't get me wrong I'm still a smoke-a-holic, and I guess I will always be one, but no smokes today and hopefully none tomorrow. That's the way it's been for the last 2 years.

Good luck with your fight to quite, and speedy recovery.

Glen