DEAR EDITOR:

I am writing to illuminate the issue of smoking / tobacco addiction in our community and to advocate for increased support in “smoking cessation” or quitting. Smoking is a significant public health problem, and it’s important that we take action to help people quit this dangerous habit.

Documented evidence of the health risks of smoking have proven to be lacking in motivating people to quit. This is because of their addiction to nicotine.

Therefore, it is critical to ramp-up the community’s awareness of various programs that are available. Counseling and medications designed to aid in quitting are underutilized. That is why a comprehensive public information campaign will play a vital role in making this information available.

Access to “smoking cessation” resources and services should be made readily available and affordable to anyone wanting to quit. Community health centers, clinic and health care providers must prioritize offering support. Financial barriers to medications and / or counseling must be minimized to ensure that anyone can participate in these programs.

Employers should contribute by providing a smoke-free environment and incentives for those who wish to quit.

Educational institutions must educate students about the dangers of smoking and provide resources and support to those who may already be smokers but wish to quit. We need to work to prevent future generations from falling into the trap of nicotine addiction.

Working together, we can make significant strides in improving the health and well-being of our community.

KAYLEE FREDENBURG

Warren