Quitline doubles free nicotine patches, gum

Quitline Iowa is doubling the amount of nicotine patches and gum from two to four weeks of therapy available to callers during the month of January.

"I visit with tobacco users quite often and it is not uncommon for them to share the struggles they have when faced with health related issues and the fear of not being able to quit," said Cheryl Buntsma, Tobacco Prevention Coordinator of five counties in Northwest Iowa. "I hope they choose to receive four weeks of nicotine replacement therapy, optional counseling and support through Quitline Iowa today."

Iowans can call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) to receive a free four-week supply of nicotine patches, gum or lozenges. Quitline Iowa also has specially trained quit coaches who help make individualized quit plans and offer ongoing support through follow-up calls.

After January 31, Quitline will resume offering callers the two-week supply available throughout the year.

According to the most recent data from Iowa Department of Public Health, about 12.7 percent of Iowans living in rural counties such as Plymouth County currently smoke.

Among them, 85 percent say they wish to quit, mainly for health reasons.

Nearly 20 percent, however, say their main reason for wanting to quit is the cost.

Iowans who quit smoking will see improvements in blood circulation and lung function in as little as two weeks. Coughing and shortness of breath will begin to decrease after the first month.

Help is also available for users of chewing tobacco.

For more information, call 1-800-784-8669 (1-800-QUIT-NOW or visit www.quitlineiowa.org.