Which intervention is critical in preventing smoking-related diseases?

Smoking cessation programs play a crucial role in preventing smoking-related diseases because they provide the necessary support and resources for individuals who are trying to quit smoking. These programs typically include various strategies such as counseling, behavioral therapy, and sometimes medication to help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.

The effectiveness of these interventions is backed by research, demonstrating that people who participate in structured cessation programs are significantly more likely to quit successfully compared to those who attempt to quit without assistance. By addressing the psychological and physical aspects of nicotine addiction, these programs encourage healthier choices, reduce smoking prevalence, and ultimately lower the incidence of diseases related to smoking, such as lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses.

In contrast, the other options highlight actions that could exacerbate the smoking epidemic or do not directly contribute to disease prevention. Encouraging smoking or making it more affordable would likely lead to an increase in smoking rates and ultimately result in more smoking-related health problems. Limiting access to nicotine, while potentially beneficial in curtailing smoking among new users, is not as directly impactful in helping current smokers quit compared to the structured support offered by cessation programs.