How long does it take to totally quit smoking?

my boyfriend has been smoking for 10 years now, and he has decided to quit last year. but lately he puffs 3x to relieve his chest pains. will this in anyway help him really get the nicotine out of his system?
My bf had smoked for 10 yrs. He stopped Apr 2006. He gradually reduced his consumption until he only puffs 2x a month or whenever he feels chestpains (withdrawal symptoms). It’s been 12months now, is it still advisable to take some puffs once in a while?

FYI he doesnt crave for a cigar. Can last 1 month without a stick. But then when he has chest pains decides to get a puff.

Is this just normal? Or should I tell him to endure the pain and not smoke. Is this possible? Or all quitters get through this pain with the same solution (of occassional puffing) ?

thank you for all those who replied. Really great help for me.

Quit Smoking Advice

Everyone needs some encouragement and this video can help you keep moving in the right direction.

These clips are from the BBC: Horizon documentary series entitled “We Love Cigarettes”. The advice Allen Carr gives is pretty damn good, it convinced me (a 5 year smoker) to quit cold turkey. It has been a couple months now and I’m still going strong. Update: It has been over one year since my last cigarette and I have never been tempted to look back. I really hope this simple advice has helped someone else.