(Utica, NY) State health officials are predicting that 86,100 adults will quit smoking because of New York’s recent cigarette tax hike.
Because quitting tobacco is a formidable challenge, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield’s Quit for Life® Program reminds smokers that free help is available, and that certain tricks might help them kick the habit.
The cigarette tax increased from $2.75 a pack to $4.35 a pack in upstate New York on July 1.
About 25 percent of adults smoke in Oneida and Madison counties and 21 percent of adults smoke in Herkimer County, according to state health department data.
“With the tough economy, the cigarette tax increase might be the motivator some people need to stop smoking,” said Eileen Wolff, health and wellness consultant, Excellus BCBS.
“One important suggestion for people who are trying to quit is to enlist support from friends and family — they will be the ones who will help them get through their urges to smoke,” she added.
Here are more tips on quitting tobacco:
Set a quit date, maybe practicing “mini quits” before quitting for good. If you stop smoking for short intervals, you will get used to what it feels like to stop smoking.
Talk to your doctor about taking medication, including the over-the-counter nicotine patch and gum and prescription drugs. Talking to your doctor is important because certain medical conditions and medications might interact with such drugs.
Try other things while trying to quit. Exercise, for example, will reduce stress and help you through your cravings. Do something fun, such as taking a vacation, with the money you are no longer spending on cigarettes. Replace the time you usually spend smoking with activities you enjoy.
The Quit for Life Program is available to many Excellus BCBS members for free and includes counseling calls, access to a Quit Coach® and free nicotine replacement products such as gum, patches and lozenges. For more information, call (800) 442-8904.
The New York State Smokers Quitline also offers smokers help to stop smoking, including free coaching and quit plans; free nicotine patches, gum or lozenges; free tips and information and free online help. The toll-free Quitline numbers is: (866) 697-8487. For more information, go to http://www.nysmokefree.com.
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