One of the most popular resolutions is to quit smoking, but according to a research result, those in their 40s are most unlikely to stick to their pledge while those over 60s tend to keep their promises.

According to the Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs’ study of 800 adult male smokers registered at smokers’ clinics nationwide between 2006 and 2008, 18.4 percent have succeeded in quitting for a year and 13.4 percent have continued the smoke-free condition for two years.

Those 60 or older marked 24.4 percent success rate for one year, the highest, while 40-somethings marked 14.3 percent, the lowest.

The institute said electronic cigarettes might not be as successful in aiding cessation of smoking as people expect because they often contain nicotine.

“Quitting smoking is about quitting nicotine. If the e-cigarettes contain nicotine, smokers will find it hard to let them go,” the institute said.

(baejisook@heraldcorp.com)