Maury Regional to offer nicotine cessation program in January

For those seeking to kick the habit of smoking or nicotine use, Maury Regional Health will offer a free four-part nicotine cessation program in January 2024.

The nicotine cessation program will meet on Tuesdays in the new year, with classes beginning Jan. 2 and continuing Jan. 9, 16 and 23. Each class begins at 6 p.m. and will be held at Maury Regional Medical Center (1224 Trotwood Avenue in Columbia). Participants should enter through the hospital’s main entrance and will be escorted to Private Dining Room 1 on the ground floor.

“Quitting cigarettes, vaping products and smokeless tobacco may be the single most important thing a person can do to improve their health,” said Sharon Dobbins, a respiratory therapist who will lead the sessions. “As a former smoker, I can personally relate to the challenges that come with trying to stop using tobacco products and encourage those who are trying to quit to join this supportive group session.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), cigarette smoking and tobacco use is responsible for more than 480,000 deaths in the U.S. each year. More than 16 million Americans are also living with a serious disease or health condition caused by smoking, such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes and lung disease.

Over time, people who quit smoking or other nicotine products see many benefits to their health. After you stop using nicotine products, your body begins a series of positive changes that continue for years, including:

• Improves health status and enhances quality of life

• Reduces the risk of premature death

• Reduces the risk of many adverse health effects, including cardiovascular diseases, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cancer

Advance registration for the nicotine cessation program is required so that course materials may be prepared. To register, visit MauryRegional.com/Quit.