VA Central California Health Care System
Quit for a day, quit for life
Smoking cessation is a public health priority for VA
On the third Thursday of each year, the American Cancer Society marks the Great American Smokeout, a day when smokers are encouraged to stop smoking for at least a day. For the year of 2013, the event falls on November 21. If you smoke, please consider taking part.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 19% of American adults smoke cigarettes and 1 in 5 deaths in the United States are caused by tobacco use. As VA recognizes Veterans are much more susceptive to smoke and to have smoking-related illnesses than average, smoking cessation is a public health priority for VA.
Quitting is hard, but VA Central California Health Care System (VACCHCS) is committed to help Veterans and eligible beneficiaries to enjoy life tobacco free. Smoking cessation group sessions are held every Thursday from 8:45 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. at the Fresno Medical Center, Primary Care Education Room SO-103 and in the three clinics (Merced, Oakhurst and Tulare) via Telehealth. Classes include medications, behavioral intervention and support. No appointment or consult is required.
VA Smoking Quitline: 1-855-QUIT-VET (1-855-784-8838)
For more information on the Smoking Cessation programs for Veterans and eligible beneficiaries, please contact Bruce Manzo, Pharmacy Clinical Specialist by phone at 559-225-6100 extension 4811 or by e-mail at bruce.manzo@va.gov.
