January 15 to January 21 is National Non-Smoking Week and a great time to think about quitting.  Actually, anytime is a good time to quit smoking or vaping.  Hastings and Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) says that tobacco users and vapers should know that quitting takes practice.  Statistics show that It may take between 7 and 30 attempts before being able to break the addiction for good.  Perseverance will pay off, since quitting smoking or vaping is one of the best things a person can do for their health.

Respiratory viruses and other illnesses impact an individual’s lungs so quitting smoking or vaping can help reduce the chances of experiencing more severe symptoms of respiratory illnesses. HPEPH says that research has concluded that if smokers become sick with COVID-19, they are more likely to have worse symptoms, be admitted to an ICU, and die as compared to non-smokers.  The benefits of quitting can be experienced within 20 minutes after a person’s last cigarette and can continue to be seen for up to 15 years.

There are supports and services available to help people quit.  HPEPH offers “We Can Quit” and “STOP Addictions” programs by calling 1-800-267-2803, ext. 600, or 613-966-5500, ext. 600. Free nicotine patches, gum and lozenges are available for eligible individuals. Trained quit specialists are available by calling Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000.  Online resources can be found at www.smokershelpline.ca  where you can also chat with a trained quit coach.  Canadian Addictions and Mental Health also offers the STOP on the Net program, which offers online support and four weeks of free nicotine replacement therapy.  Check out www.nicotinedependenceclinic.com/en .

For more information about any of these support resources contact HPEPH Tobacco Talk Line at 613-966-5500 ext.600, visit www.hpePublicHealth.ca/vaping  or www.hpePublicHealth.ca/quit-smoking-program .

-Debbie MacDonald Moynes