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Never a Better Time to Quit

Protect your lungs now more than ever

A Veteran considering to stop smokingIf you've been thinking about quitting smoking, there's never been a better time.

We don’t know yet what impact smoking has on your chances of contracting COVID-19. Experts from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), World Health Organization (WHO) and others say that smokers may be at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19. A cigarette at your lips may increase the chances that the virus could be transferred from your hand to your face. If you smoke, you may also have lung damage or a develop a condition like COPD. This could increase risks of illness or complications from COVID-19.

We want to help you stop smoking now more than ever. The best way to quit is by using nicotine replacement with behavioral counseling. The good news: that's not your only option. Many VA facilities and medical centers are now providing virtual counseling and tobacco cessation groups for Veterans. Here are a few ways we can help you stop smoking:

  1. Call Quit VET: You can speak to a tobacco cessation counselor between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. Quit VET connects you to a trained counselor who can help develop a quit plan and provide ongoing counseling and support to prevent your returning to smoking. The number is: 1-855-784-8838

  2. Text messages from SmokefreeVET: Receive text messages with tips and tools to beat cravings. Next time you want to smoke, text VET to 47848.

  3. Get encouragement: Follow SmokefreeVET on Facebook for tips and inspiration from other Veterans.

  4. More help: Find VA resources on how to become a smoke-free Veteran and tips for quitting.

Sign in to My HealtheVet and in a secure message ask your health care team if your facility offers tobacco cessation groups through VA Video Connect or conference calls. Groups, even those conducted virtually, are a great way to get support and tips from other Veterans who are quitting smoking.

Please vote in our unscientific poll. All responses are anonymous.

Which of these methods are you most interested in to help you quit smoking?

Read More

COVID-19 Risks for People Who Smoke, Take Drugs (National Institute on Drug Abuse)

How to Quit (VA)

How to Use VA Video Connect

Created April 20, 2020