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Learn how to quit smoking: free presentation at the Library

Contributor
By Contributor
January 6th, 2015

“Giving up smoking is the easiest thing in the world. I know because I’ve done it thousands of times.”

Mark Twain famously said this, but millions can relate. Quitting smoking—and staying quit—isn’t easy.

It takes support, and a few good strategies. The Nelson Public Library and the BC Lung Association’s QuitNow program are teaming up to help on Tuesday, January 13 at 7pm.

This free presentation by QuitNow Health Promoter Louise Poole is scheduled to precede Weedless Wednesday, which this year falls on January 21.

“You don’t have to quit at this session,” explains Poole. “This is an opportunity to get some free information to help you quit when you’re ready—whether that’s during National Non-Smoking Week, or any time.”

For almost 40 years Canadians have butted out during National Non-Smoking Week and made Weedless Wednesday a completely smoke-free day. Falling as it does in the third week of January, it’s also a chance to make good on a New Year’s resolution.

“There are so many aids available today, quitting really is achievable,” says Poole.

The presentation offers a chance to learn about the free supports available to help smokers quit, and get the latest information on electronic cigarettes. There’s also an opportunity get a lung test for carbon monoxide, a by-product of tobacco smoke.

Smoking is a risk factor for lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, chronic respiratory disease and other conditions. Today, about 20% of Canadians aged 12 and over—roughly 5 million people—smoke, whether it’s daily or occasionally.

If these numbers seem high, it’s helpful to note that according to a 2014 study, six out of ten Canadians who have been smokers in the past have now quit. By offering this free information session, QuitNow and the Library hope to encourage more to join the growing numbers of non-smokers.

For more information contact Louise Poole at klpoole@shaw.ca or 250-825-9202.

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