Ready to quit smoking?
Smoking is the biggest preventable cause of illness and early death. No matter how old you are or how long you have smoked, it is important to quit. When you stop smoking you lower your risk of getting lung cancer, heart disease, stroke and other lung problems. The health benefits start as soon as you quit smoking!
- After 20 minutes - your blood pressure starts to go down
- After 24 hours - nicotine levels in your body drop to zero
- After 1 year - your risk of heart disease is lowered
- After 5 to 15 years - your risk of stroke is reduced
There are many ways to quit smoking. You may even have to try different ways before it works, and that is okay! The important thing is that you keep trying. Keep in mind that it is never too late - especially if you are living with a chronic illness.
We are here to help! We can refer you to in-person and telephone counseling at no cost. We also pay for all of the FDA approved medicines that help people quit smoking. Be sure to call Care Coordination for a referral at (800) 809-1350.
Tips to Help You Quit:
Admit the problem to yourself and those around you.
Write down when and why you smoke, to understand the habit.
Pick a day to quit and stick to it.
Try to spend less time with people who smoke.
Make a list of reasons why you want to quit. Keep it with you to remind yourself of the reasons why you want to quit.
Talk to your doctor about ways to help you quit, like medicine or support programs.
Kick It California
Kick It California helps people quit smoking, vaping, and using smokeless tobacco. Their coaches help you make a quit plan and support you every step of the way. They teach you strategies that have worked for many people. You can choose phone counseling or online options. If you have been thinking about quitting smoking, call today at (800) 300-8086 or go online and chat at kickitca.org.
County Tobacco Cessation and Prevention Resources
You may also be able to get in-person or group counseling. Click on your county, or one close to you, to see if these services are available near you.
