Successful Smoking Cessation Program Reaches Out One Last Time to Veterans

LEOMINSTER — Through a collaborative effort, the Massachusetts Department of Veterans’ Services (DVS), the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH), and the city of Leominster, today celebrated the success of the Massachusetts Veterans Smoking Cessation Program. To date, the quitline has received over 3,000 calls from veterans and their families looking to quit smoking. The nicotine patch giveaway program will run through June 30, 2009. With the end date quickly approaching, veterans and families are encouraged to make the call to quit.

"I'm proud to be here, today, as Leominster does its part to promote the veterans' smoking cessation program.” said Representative Naughton, “I applaud the efforts being made by DPH and DVS to assist the Commonwealth's veterans go on to live full, healthy lives."

DVS and DPH launched the smoking cessation program on November 17, 2008. Massachusetts veterans and their family members who call the Massachusetts Smokers Helpline at 1-800-Try-To-Stop will receive a free four-week supply of nicotine patches valued at $100 retail, along with informational resources on the benefits of quitting smoking, and tips on how to stop. Program participants will also receive free telephone support to help them quit.

"Assisting our veterans in their fight to quit smoking is a great first step towards assuring that they can go on to lead full, healthy lives. With only six weeks left before the program's end, I encourage veterans and family members to take advantage of this program to help them quit smoking” said Secretary Kelley.

Massachusetts veterans smoke at a higher rate than the general adult population: 22% as opposed to 16.4%, when adjusted for age (based on figures from 2008). Smoking remains the number one cause of preventable death and disease in the Commonwealth, accounting for over $4.3 billion in health care costs annually. Studies have shown that smokers are three times as likely to quit for good if they use quit-smoking medications such as the patch, combined with counseling and support from trained specialists. The program has seen great success since its inception and hopes to see that success continue in upcoming months.

More information on the nicotine patch giveaway program is available by calling 1-800-Try-To-Stop, or online at www.makesmokinghistory.com/veterans.

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