According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tobacco use is the most preventable cause of death in the United States. It is estimated that one in five cancer deaths in this country is associated with tobacco use.
Marion Public Health reports that even though Marion County suffers from a higher incidence of smoking than state or national averages, the community at the start of 2013 lacked sufficient resources to combat this growing problem. In order to reverse this trend Creating Healthy Communities at Marion Public Health and community partners formed the Tobacco–Free Marion County Coalition.
The Tobacco–Free Marion County Coalition was initiated in February 2013 and hosted monthly meetings thereafter with representation ranging from schools and private worksites to healthcare and other local agencies to lead the charge in tobacco prevention and control in the community.
Free tobacco cessation services are now available at Marion Public Health in conjunction with OhioHealth Marion General Hospital for those individuals seeking a tobacco-free lifestyle.
Topics include:
- Health benefits of tobacco cessation
- Barriers to quitting tobacco
- Behavior changes
- Stress management techniques
- Nicotine replacement options
The program consists of six small group sessions.
- Session One: April 24 – May 29 at Marion Public Health
- Session Two: June 19 – July 24 at Ohio State University Marion
- Session Three: September 4 – October 9 at Marion Public Health
To learn more about Cessation Services or join the Tobacco-Free Marion County Coalition call Marion Public Health at 740-692-9104
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