Mr. Loftin is a 78-year-old man who has been diagnosed with severe emphysema. He has been a heavy smoker since age 12 and continues to smoke. He complains about his shortness of breath, stating he cannot do more than walk across the room without gasping for air. He has been cautioned about the effects of his continued smoking, but he responds with statement such as, What difference does it make if I quit now? I’ve smoked all my life and you can’t go back and change that.” How would you respond to this statement? Is it too late for him to quit and receive some benefits of that behavioral change? Is any of the damage from smoking reversible? How can you explain this to Mr. Loftin?
