O’Hare clears the way for the Great Smokeout

By: Erica Johnson
Posted In: News

“Cold turkey,” a frightening phrase for 20 percent of college students nationwide. No, we’re not talking about those Thanksgiving leftovers we’ll soon enjoy, but of trying to kick a nicotine addiction that kills 61 people every day in New England.

Quitting isn’t easy but with new techniques and a support system, it can be done. To promote tobacco-free lives, Health Services is offering information and activities on smoking cessation this Thursday, Nov. 20, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. in O’Hare. It’s all part of the Great American Smokeout, an annual event sponsored by the American Cancer Society that challenges smokers to stop using tobacco for one day and to help them find effective ways to quit for good.

“This is a day when smokers might try to quit,” said Bonnie Fisher, a Registered Nurse Practitioner (RNP) at Health Services, “Or at least plant the seed that it would be a good thing to do.”

Students will be able to test the age of their lungs, pick up smoking cessation kits, and sign up for interest in attending a cessation group meeting. The kits contain pamphlets on smoking statistics and effective ways to quit, candy and gum to avoid nicotine cravings, and other items to keep your hands busy and help resist the temptation to light up.

According to the American Cancer Society, “Research shows that smokers are most successful in kicking the habit when they have some means of support, such as nicotine replacement products, counseling, prescription medicine to lessen cravings, guide books, and the encouragement of friends and family members.”

That is why Health Services is trying to arrange a smoking cessation group so students will have a support system for kicking their bad habit. The group would begin next semester depending upon student interest. They are also prepared to hand out free nicotine patches for those in the support group or who come for individual visits and progress reports.

So when you see a jittery friend without his/her usual cigarette this week, offer your support and appreciation. After all they are saving your life from harmful secondhand smoke as much as saving their own.

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