STOPtober is underway, challenging over 50,000 people to go smoke-free for 28 days. Yet many find it tough to stick with it. What makes quitting smoking so difficult?
Research from the Amsterdam UMC (AMC) reveals that 70% of STOPtober participants complete the challenge. Nearly half remain smoke-free three months later—five times the success rate of typical quit attempts made outside this program.
Read also: 'Stop smoking: the tip to keep it going'
The struggle often lies in the brain, as explained by the Brain Foundation. Nicotine, like other addictive substances including alcohol, directly impacts brain nerve cells and neurotransmitters.
All addictive drugs boost dopamine levels in the brain. This neurotransmitter powers the brain's reward system, creating feelings of pleasure and satisfaction. The resulting high drives repeated use, fueling addiction.
