Tennessee Smokers Get Free Support to Quit

Tennessee smokers participating in the Great American Smokeout Thursday can quit with free help from the Tennessee Tobacco QuitLine. The QuitLine connects smokers with a personal coach who guides them through the quitting process. QuitLine clients also have access to relapse prevention techniques, information on nicotine replacement therapies and other services. State Health Commissioner John Dreyzehner  says 23 percent of Tennesseans report smoking regularly or occasionally. He says smoking is a significant public health issue, contributing to life-threatening problems including cancer and heart disease. Dreyzehner says it’s tough to break an addiction to tobacco, but studies show that those who get counseling have a better chance at success.