New Year’s resolutions are common this time of year. Some are easily broken; others are sincerely made, but hard to keep. The decision to eliminate tobacco from your life is a commitment that takes self-control and support. Scott County Health Department reminds residents who have made the healthy choice to quit smoking that help and support is available through Quitline Iowa.
According to the most recent Quad Cities Community Health Assessment, 17% of Scott County adults smoke. Of those surveyed in the assessment, an average of 18.8% of children in Scott, Rock Island and Muscatine Counties are exposed to secondhand smoke at home, which is more than twice the national average.
“The benefits of stopping the use of tobacco are almost immediate,” said Kim Mills, Community Tobacco Consultant for the Scott County Health Department. “Within 24 hours of quitting smoking, a person’s chance of having a heart attack already begins to decrease.” Mills reminds those trying to quit that Quitline Iowa is a great resource to help.
Quitline Iowa pairs tobacco users with a Quit Coach® to help them develop an individualized quitting plan and determine the best way to help them stay tobacco-free. A Quit Coach® also helps by:
- Preparing participants for their quit date
- Providing tips and support to live in a smoke-free environment
- Offering advice and information on medications that may help with withdrawal symptoms
Scott County residents can take advantage of the program by calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669), or visitingwww.quitlineiowa.org to enroll. Registration specialists and Quit Coaches® are available 24 hours a day.
