Likely the most critical and in-depth smoking cessation research cross-examination ever, I'm curious as to ResearchGate community thoughts as to Chapman's new book "Quit smoking weapons of mass distraction ( https://www.amazon.com/Smoking-Weapons-Distraction-Public-Social-ebook/dp/B09X9KD9NV ).

Having just completed my own book review ( https://whyquit.com/pr/071522-chapman-weapons-mass-distraction.html ) here are my thoughts on the three areas most in need of high-quality research:

1. Missing population-level nicotine dependency recovery evidence/picture.

While 70% of smokers and 62% of e-cig users want to quit, regardless of how nicotine is introduced into the bloodstream, how are those dependent upon it successfully arresting their dependence? Imagine if the focus of nearly all alcohol recovery was about replacement or switching schemes instead of cessation. From smokeless tobacco to mini-cigars, to a significant percentage of nicotine gum users being hooked on the cure, the big nicotine cessation picture has never been taken or painted.

2. If the vast majority arrest their dependence without use of approved products or professional counseling/support, what method did they employ?

What method of unassisted cessation is most productive, which is most effective, and what are the keys to each method's effectiveness? Many studies have found that it takes a certain average number of quitting attempts before success is achieved. What lesson is eventually learned and why can't that lesson be shared/taught prior to their first attempt ever?

3. Is the synergy of "double your chances" OTC NRT marketing, cold turkey bashing, and serious neglect of unassisted cessation research diminishing successful cessation and ultimately costing lives?

While normal and natural for science to look for a scientific solution, I submit that it is nearly impossible to blind experienced quitters as to the presence or absence of the onset of their withdrawal syndrome within 24-48 hours of quitting (peak withdrawal). If true, it suggests that more than 200 placebo-controlled NRT, bupropion and varenicline trials lack a science-based foundation (see https://whyquit.com/pr/020219-FDA-knew-stop-smoking-product-clinical-trials-not-science-based.html ).

Money and economic might isn't necessarily right. If unwilling to study, review and analyze how we got here, what hope is there in finding the most effective way out?

John R. Polito, JD

Nicotine Cessation Educator