Abstract
This article reviews the practice guideline from the Dutch College of General Practitioners on smoking cessation. General practitioners (GP) should strive after smoking cessation when patients consult and ask for support to stop smoking. Moreover, the practitioner should also show such initiative when patients present signs and symptoms related to smoking; in parents of children with asthma; and in pregnant women. The strength of general practice is its accessibility to the population: more than 60% of the population consults their GP at least once a year. However, it is important to realize that it is not always possible to raise the issue of smoking cessation, and in some consultations this might be inappropriate. The effectiveness of individual advice in smoking cessation is enhanced by public health campaigns, and it is expected that the smoking ban in Dutch bars and restaurants, that is to come into effect in July 2008, will support the role of GPs. A problem in the implementation of the practice guideline remains, however: medication and methods to support withdrawal symptoms are still not covered by health care insurers.
