Many resources available for November 17 'Smokeout'

By Frank Weir Legal News The Jackson Tobacco Reduction Coalition and Jackson County Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition are joning with the American Cancer Society to promote the 36th Great American Smokeout set for November 17. The organizations are encouraging smokers to use the day to set a plan in place to quit or to stop that day. "This day is designated as a day for people to quit using tobacco products for at least 24 hours in the hope that they will be successful in quitting for good," a JCSAPC spokesperson said. The Jackson Tobacco Reduction Coalition is sponsoring an "Increase Your Odds" Tobacco Cessation Fair designed to help smokers obtain information and resources to help improve their chances of success. This event will be held on Wednesday, November 16, from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Jackson County Health Department in Room 005. For more information or a flyer, call the Coalition Coordinator at (517) 768-2131. "We want to really highlight services and programs that are available to help residents in our community quit using tobacco," stated Rhonda Rudolph, JTRC Coordinator. "The Great American Smokeout is a great day for people to set as a quit date, but we also want to promote resources that are available year-round," she added. Rudolph encourages tobacco users to make a plan for quitting and enlist the support of a family member, co-worker or a close friend. "Planning ahead and choosing the best method is a key factor in successful quitting. Being prepared includes understanding the changes your body will be going through as you return to a nicotine-free state so you are ready and can handle these changes without losing your desire for quitting." Research shows that quitters are most successful when using a combination of therapies, including resources such as nicotine replacement, counseling, self help materials and a strong support network of family and friends. Local resources available to help people quit include Allegiance Health Tobacco Treatment Services at (517) 788-4707 or self help materials and information provided by the Jackson Tobacco Reduction Coalition at (517) 768-2131. Many insurance companies are now working closely with their members to provide stop smoking services and pharmaceuticals also. The organizations also recommend talking with your physician as they also are good resources, particularly when it comes to your personal health status. Another valuable resource in helping people find effective ways to quit smoking is the Michigan Tobacco Quitline. Tobacco users who want to quit are urged to call the Michigan Tobacco Quitline at 1-800-784-8669 or log on to http://www.njhcommunity.org/michigan to get tools and information that will help them be successful. During the first call, a trained coach will talk to you about what you feel you need to help you quit. You can get self-help materials, a list of quit smoking programs in your area, or you may be able to register for a free telephone-coaching program. Nicotine Replacement Therapy may be available for those who qualify. The American Cancer Society has some helpful information on their website, www.cancer.org, for individuals who are interested in quitting. With tips and tools, benefits, desktop helpers you can download, cigarette cost calculator to help you figure out how much you are spending on tobacco, and the ability to send an electronic card to yourself or someone you know who needs support, you will find a variety of resources which are helpful in making your quit attempts successful. Rudolph goes on to say, "Quitting tobacco use is more than just giving up a harmful habit, it is a complete attitude and lifestyle change." For more information on the Great American Smokeout visit www.cancer.org. For more information on local resources contact the Jackson Tobacco Reduction Coalition at (517) 768-2131. For free help in quitting smoking, call the MDCH Tobacco Quitline at 1-800-Quit-Now or (800) 784-8669. "Our prevention efforts are funded through Mid-South Substance Abuse Commission and the Michigan Department of Community Health." Published: Mon, Nov 14, 2011

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