Tobacco Cessation
Ledge Light Health District, in partnership with Uncas Health District, has been awarded a grant by the CT Department of Public Health to provide free tobacco cessation (quit smoking) programs for residents in New London County, primarily those who are uninsured, underinsured or receiving Medicaid. The District will offer the 8-week “Freedom from Smoking” program developed by the American Lung Association. The program helps people learn the skills needed to quit smoking and using other tobacco products while providing a supportive group setting. Pharmaceutical quit aides such as gums, lozenges and patches will be offered through the Connecticut Quit-line.
“Tobacco use is the single most avoidable cause of death in our society and one of the most important public health issues of our time. The addictive nature of tobacco makes it very difficult to quit; our best strategy to address this public health issue is to offer tobacco cessation programs and after-care follow up" said Baker Salsbury, Director of Health for Ledge Light Health District.
The goals of the program include: increasing the number of trained tobacco cessation facilitators that will accommodate the language diversity of the community and to provide smoking cessation support programs to at least 100 individuals.
Helpful Resources
-
To register for a free "Freedom from Smoking" Program near you contact Kerensa Mansfield.
-
Download an informational flyer for posting at your business as a resource for your employees and customers!
Freedom from Smoking Program
Flyer -
For more information on the benefits of quitting smoking visit the Tobacco Cessation section of Health Living.
The
Tobacco Cessation Program is funded by the Connecticut Department of Public Health.
