In the Spotlight
Never a Better Time to Quit
Protect your lungs now more than ever
If 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:
-
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
-
Text messages from SmokefreeVET: Receive text messages with tips and tools to beat cravings. Next time you want to smoke, text VET to 47848.
-
Get encouragement: Follow SmokefreeVET on Facebook for tips and inspiration from other Veterans.
-
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.
Read More
COVID-19 Risks for People Who Smoke, Take Drugs (National Institute on Drug Abuse)
How to Quit (VA)
Created April 20, 2020