If you are already a smoker...It is time to quit! Chances are you have already thought about quitting. Of course you are going to quit...

Maybe you have only been smoking for a year or two or maybe you only smoke when in "social" situations. But it isn't a permanent thing, you plan to quit before graduation, right? Surprise! Most smokers started smoking in their teen years or early 20s; and guess what, they are still smoking 10, 20, or even 30 years later.

So why not quit? Most smokers report that they would like to quit. That is proof that smoking is an addiction. It is why smokers stand out in the freezing weather because they can't smoke inside the building and why they arrive late or leave early from work or class to catch a smoke break.

And it isn't just yourself you are hurting. Secondhand smoke is a Group A carcinogen, a chemical known to cause cancer. The smoke from one cigarette remains in a room for up to five hours. By smoking, you are putting others at risk too!

QUITTING CAN SAVE YOUR LIFE
You may feel like you might die at first, quitting is no easy task, but it is not too hard! The benefits far outweigh the difficulty. The key is not to do it alone. Making a plan, visiting with your healthcare provider or wellness office, and getting support from family & friends are all keys to quitting and staying quit!

For more information on quitting smoking, call 341.4225 or e-mailhealthed@mst.edu.