December 27, 2013
Resolve to be Tobacco Free
As millions of Americans prepare to make New Year’s resolutions, Suffolk County officials encourage county residents who wish to quit smoking to seek the help of a trained advisor.
According to a study published online on December 20, 2013 by the Society for the Study of Addiction, smokers who try to quit smoking using a combination of specialized behavioral support, along with anti-smoking medicine or nicotine replacement products, are three times more likely to be successful than those who try to stop smoking on their own.
“We want the people of Suffolk County to be as healthy as they can be,” said County Executive Bellone. “Our tobacco cessation program is a great resource available to all county residents who wish to be successful in their resolve to quit smoking and to live longer, healthier lives.”
“We know more than ever about what works and what doesn't,” said Dr. Tomarken. “For example, new research reveals that January is one of the best times to quit. Our ‘Learn to Be...Tobacco Free’ program offers assistance with making and sticking to a plan, along with support, counseling and/or medication.”
The classes are free to Suffolk County residents, though there is a fee for medication if a participant is medically eligible. January classes are as follows:
Good Samaritan Hospital (classes held at Breast Cancer Health Inc.), 32 Park Ave., Bay Shore
Thursdays from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m., January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; February 6 (Contact: 376-4444)
Suffolk County Department of Health Services, 725 Veterans Highway, Bldg. C928, Hauppauge
Tuesdays from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m., January 7, 14, 21, 28; February 4, 11 (Contact: 853-2928)
St. Charles Hospital, 200 Belle Terre Road, Port Jefferson
Thursdays from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m., January 9, 16, 23, 30; February 6, 13 (Contact: 473-7848)
Riverhead Public Library, 330 Court St., Riverhead
Tuesdays from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m., January 14, 21, 28; February 4, 11, 18 (Contact: 727-3228)
Brookhaven Memorial Hospital, 101 Hospital Road, Brookhaven
Mondays from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m., January 27; February 3, 10, 24; March 3, 10 (Contact: 654-7778)
Call 853-4017 for more information.