by Deanne Casey
Civilian Health Promotion Services
11/12/2010 - HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- The American Cancer Society's slogan marking the 35th Great American Smokeout on Nov. 18 is "Help Create a World with Less Cancer and More Birthdays."
Smokers are encouraged to use the date to make a plan to quit, or to plan in advance and quit smoking that day. The cancer society's website offers a comprehensive guide to assist someone with how to quit. Visit www.cancer.org and click on the "no smoking" graphic to learn more.
According to the website, nicotine is an addictive drug found naturally in tobacco. Over time, a person becomes physically and emotionally addicted to nicotine. Studies have shown that smokers must deal with both the physical and psychological dependence to quit and stay quit.
Hanscom offers help for smokers who want to quit. The Health and Wellness Center (HAWC) offers a Smoking Cessation Program on Wednesdays from 12 noon to 1 p.m. Call 781-377-6560 to register.
In addition to the American Cancer Society's website and Hanscom's smoking cessation program, base personnel may also call counselors from home and get information and resources on quitting that is specific to each state. The number is 1-800-QUIT-NOW.
