Quit Smoking

Quitting is hard to do. But with the right resources and support, you can stop smoking for good.

Why should I quit?

  • Smoking causes cancer of the lungs, mouth and throat.
  • Smoking causes heart disease.
  • Smoking causes emphysema and/or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
  • Smoking increases the risk of strokes.
  • Smoking causes poor circulation.
  • Smoking causes diabetes complications.

What are other good reasons for quitting?

  • You will live longer.
  • You will have more energy.
  • You will breathe easier.
  • You will lower your risk of erectile dysfunction.
  • You will lower the risk of a stroke and cancer.
  • You will save money.

Tips to stop using tobacco

  • Make the commitment to quit. See if you are ready to quit by taking this quiz.
  • Set a date for quitting and stick to it.
  • Get rid of all ashtrays, cigarettes and lighters.
  • Stay in nonsmoking areas.
  • Tell your family and friends so they can support you.
  • Find ways to reduce stress.
  • Keep yourself busy.
  • Ask your provider about medication to help you quit smoking.

Keep your kids safe from smoke

  • Do not smoke in your home.
  • Do not smoke with your children in the car.
  • Choose childcare workers who do not smoke around your children.
  • Do not spend too much time indoors where anyone is smoking.
  • If you or anyone in your family smoke, you may also think about quitting.

What happens after you quit?

  • After 20 minutes, your blood pressure drops to normal.
  • After 8 hours, the carbon monoxide level in your blood drops to normal.
  • After 48 hours, you can smell and taste better.
  • In 1 to 9 months, coughing, sinus congestion, fatigue and the shortness of breath you feel decreases.
  • After 5 years, the chance of dying from lung cancer drops by nearly 50 precent.
  • After 15 years, the risk of heart disease is equal to that of a nonsmoker.

Ohio Tobacco Quit Line

Call the Ohio Tobacco Quit Line toll-free any time at (800) 784-8669 for help. You can get personal quit coaching and telephone counseling at no cost to you. Call or visit ohio.quitlogix.org to enroll today!

My Life, My Quit

This stop tobacco program is designed just for teens. There are 3 ways to join: