UHCS Services
- Individual support and counseling with trained health care professionals
- Prescription medication to help smokers and chewing tobacco users quit
- Free or reduced cost nicotine replacement products available through the WI Quit Line
Overview
Smoking is the leading preventable cause of death in the US. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, smokers die an average of 13 to 14 years earlier than nonsmokers. The research on the health impact of smoking is very clear. For some people, the process of quitting tobacco use is very difficult as it is both a physical addiction and a psychological habit. For this reason, multiple quit attempts are often a necessary part of becoming tobacco free. Nicotine is a highly addictive substance than can cause withdrawal symptoms when eliminated. Research suggests that nicotine may be as addictive as heroin, cocaine, or alcohol. If you are addicted to nicotine, prescription medication or nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) may be very helpful for you. NRTs can come in the form of gum, lozenges, or patches. Other people benefit most from social support such as support groups, encouraging text messages, or resources with tips to help you succeed. One way to help determine what may be most helpful to you is to take a short quiz from the American Cancer Society.
