11/14/2025
MATH FOR SMOKERS
(I know this because I was one)
Ci******es for the year,
$8 / pack @ 1 pack a day = $2920 / year x 10 years = $29,200.00
$12 / pack @ 1 pack a day = $4380 / year x 10 years = $43,800.00
The average heart attack cost:
$22K - 28K for inpatient care per event
Emergency visit - $1651 on average
Long term care: $2,000 / year
Surgery can be in excess of $100,000
The average cost of a stroke varies significantly, but inpatient hospitalization can range from approximately $20,396 to 43,652. The lifetime cost for an ischemic stroke is estimated at around $140,048.
Not mentioned are the costs of lost wages during hospitalization.
Ni****ne patches: $25-$50 (give you weird dreams but help)
Ni****ne gum: $15 - 40 (tastes nasty but also help)
Varenicline (brand name: Chantix) :$120 for the maintenance dose (may have dangerous side effects) has worked for some people
Smoking cessation hypnosis sessions $75 - 300 per hour (more than one session is recommended for the best success).
Hypnosis can also help prevent post-cessation weight gain which none of the other products do.
It can be used with Ni****ne patches or gum.
Not for use on people with brain damage or severe mental health conditions.
Note the lack of commas in the numbers regarding smoking cessation!
Smoking cessation products & services are often an IRS 213D eligible expense for FSA, HSA, and some HRA plans.
The most effective way to quit smoking is a combination of behavioral counseling and medication, along with strong social support.
The most important key to stopping starts in your mind: you have to want to.