Smoking Cessation

Quit Now Virginia
Familiar Assistance For Virginia Residents

Tobacco is a strong addiction, but YOU are stronger.

Being tobacco-free will help reduce your risk of developing heart disease, cancer and stroke. If you are ready to quit smoking or using tobacco, including E-Cigarettes, contact the Virginia resource below that will best meet your needs.

FREE FROM TOBACCO

Free one-on-one assistance for
Richmond City residents.

Call (804) 482-8018

Visit Free From Tobacco

QUIT NOW VIRGINIA

Free 24/7 phone assistance for
all residents.

Call 1-800-QUIT NOW
(1-800-784-8669)

or visit Quit Now Virginia
(opens in new tab)

DEJELO YA VIRGINIA

Para asistencia las 24/7 para
todos los residentes de Virginia.

Llame al 1-855-DEJELO YA
(1-855-335-3569)

o visite Quit Now Virginia
(opens in new tab)

Live Tobacco Free Today

Research proves that the health benefits of quitting tobacco start 20 minutes after your last nicotine product, and keep getting better the longer you stay quit.

An infographic with the title “if you quit smoking right now”. After 15 years, your risk of coronary heart disease is the same as a non-smokers. After 10 years, you are half as likely to die from lung cancer. Your risk of larynx or pancreatic cancer decreases. After five years your risk of cancer of the mouth, throat, esophagus, and bladder are cut in half. After one year, your risk of coronary heart disease is cut in half. After nine months, you will cough less and breathe easier. Within 12 months, the carbon monoxide level in your blood drops to normal. Within three months, your circulation and lung function of improves. Within 20 minutes, your heart rate and blood pressure drop.

The Truth about Menthol

Menthol makes cigarettes easier to smoke and harder to quit. The chemical compound (menthol) creates a cooling effect, reduces the harshness of cigarette smoke, and suppresses coughing. Did you know tobacco companies systematically targeted certain communities with menthol flavored nicotine products?

Learn more at blacklivesblacklungs.com (opens in new tab).

 

chart reading "ways to get through 3-5 minute cravings" 
Breathe deeply, exercise, keep your mouth busy, app or game, find a new hobby, change your routine

Coping Strategies

Receive support and guidance on delaying the craving—which typically lasts about 3-5 minutes—through the use of distractions that keep your hands and mouth busy. Drinking water, deep breathing, and having open, honest discussions can help. Click the link below to learn about getting a coach to support you when you are stressed.

Learn more at Free From Tobacco Program.

Last Updated: July 30, 2024