Area residents interested in kicking the habit can attend a free smoking cessation course sponsored by Saint Anthony's Health Center, and participate in free lung capacity screenings.
If you or a loved one has decided to quit smoking or using some form of nicotine, this class will help you to permanently kick the habit. Using the American Lung Association’s Freedom from Smoking curriculum, the eight week program includes such topics as: motivation to quit, quitting, recovery and support, stress management, weight control and relapse prevention.
During the first session of the smoking cessation classes, the participants learn more about the effects of smoking. Participants review their own personal commitment and readiness to quit smoking and reduce the hesitation towards quitting. The first week also gives participants hope and belief that quitting is an obtainable goal.
Weeks two through seven focus on lifestyle changes, relaxation, and exercise and weight management. These weeks help each participant adjust to a new life that does not involve smoking; they learn how to handle cravings through various coping strategies. The final week is a celebration of kicking the habit. All sessions are led by a certified Freedom from Smoking facilitator.
Free Lung Capacity Screenings
Lung capacity screenings will be done on the first and last night of the program. Early detection of impaired lung function is critical in prevention and treatment of lung disease, according to Marsha Edmonds, Manager of Saint Anthony’s Respiratory Therapy.
“A lung function screening test will measure the capacity of the lung to inhale and exhale as well as the flow rate of the exhaled air,” said Edmonds. “This simple test will give information directly related to the function of your lungs. Information from the screening will help your physician to make a diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.”
Classes are held in the Saint Clare’s Professional Building, 815 East Fifth Street, Alton, and registration is requested.
To register or for more information, please call 618/465-2264.
Saint Anthony's Health Center is a 229-bed health care organization with dual campuses-Saint Anthony’s Hospital and Saint Clare’s Hospital- encompassing specialized inpatient and outpatient services. With over 150 physicians on its Medical Staff, Saint Anthony's Health Center offers a free physician referral service for the community: 618/463-1234.