Fear of Weight Gain may Deter Smokers from Trying to Quit

A recent study conducted by researchers at Penn State College of Medicine shows that some smokers may be less likely to quit if they believe it will cause weight gain.

For many, weight gain within the first year after quitting is around eight to 14 pounds, according to background information from the study.

Susan Veldheer, project manager in the Department of Public Health Services, predicted that for many smokers, they may even avoid treatment to give up the habit so that they will not gain weight, according to the Huffington Post. 

For the study, researchers surveyed 186 current smokers who sought treatment to quit and 102 smokers who avoided treatment all together. Smokers were defined as "seeking treatment" if they participated in a smoking cessation treatment research study. Yet others were approached by clinics regarding treatment. On the other hand, those who were not interested in the study were defined as "not seeking treatment," or avoiding help.

Researchers asked the participants about past attempts to quit and any concerns they had regarding weight gain. Findings showed that smokers who tried to quit were as equally concerned as those who avoided treatment. However, findings showed that about 53 percent of the participants had gained weight during previous attempts to quit smoking. In this subgroup, findings showed that those who were concerned with weight issues were also more likely to avoid treatment.

"Perhaps we shouldn't be surprised that smokers who gained weight previously are 'once bitten, twice shy,'" Veldheer said. "They are concerned about weight gain if they attempt to quit even though they may know the benefits of quitting."

More information regarding the findings can be seen via The International Journal of Clinical Practice.