A new smoking cessation program "How Not to Smoke" is now being introduced to help women quit smoking.
Delivered by public health nurses across the Island, this self-help program recognizes that quitting takes time. It encourages women to look at their reasons or triggers for smoking and to plan ways to deal with these triggers.
Health and Social Services Minister Jamie Ballem advised that, although smoking rates among Island women are slightly lower than the national average, almost one in four Island women smoke. The rate among young women is even higher, as one in three girls aged 15 to 19 choose to smoke.
"Research indicates that smoking is as addictive as cocaine and heroine. A person who smokes one package of cigarettes a day will have a minimum of 90,000 puffs per year. No other addiction is reinforced that many times," said Minister Ballem. "This program will provide women with support to break their addiction to nicotine."
Paula Docksteader, Queens Region Health Public Health Nurse, indicated that "How Not to Smoke" allows women to take the self-help material home and use the program themselves as they move through the various stages of quitting. The program recognizes that quitting takes time.
"When I receive a call from a woman interested in the program I like to meet with her to review the self-help material and spend some time looking at what triggers her smoking. Together we can look at ways to deal with these situations," she said.
"Many women often say that they smoke to relax and find it challenging to quit when family and friends smoke. Quitting is not easy; on average a women will quit 7 times before she is successful."
Program participant Laura Johnston said she likes the self-help component of the program and not having to rely on medication.
"Ten years ago I started smoking when I was thirteen. Many of my friends smoked and I found that smoking was rebellious," said Ms. Johnson. "Today, I am more concerned about my health and I no longer want to feel short of breath when exercising. I also find that smoking is not accepted as it once was. Often I don't feel comfortable smoking in public. I have tried to quit smoking twice before and it is extremely frustrating. You want a cigarette so bad and then feel extremely guilty for giving in to the craving. This time I hope to quit successfully."
Women interested in "How Not To Smoke" should contact their regional Public Health Nursing Office.