What?

Culturally and linguistically appropriate smoking cessation intervention program for adult Latino smokers.

Why?

Worldwide

• Tobacco use is the most preventable cause of disease and death globally.
• For every person who dies from diseases directly related to smoking, 20 others have a disease related to tobacco use.

United States

• Each year 438,000 people die as consequence of tobacco use.
• Tobacco use costs the U.S. over $193 billion in medical expenses and lost productivity.
• Cigarette consumption is responsible for 90% of lung cancer (the most frequent cause of cancer death among Latinos).
• Latinos: 15% of Latinos smoke.

Maryland

• At least 6,831 adult Maryland residents die prematurely each year as a result of cigarette smoking.

Most smokers are aware of the negative health consequences of tobacco use.  Attempts to quit are difficult.

When?

Program locations were conveniently selected to facilitate participants’ access.  The program was offered during weekends and evening hours to meet participants’ needs.

How?

The 6-week, 2-hour per session, Spanish-language, free program on the detrimental effects of tobacco use, quit methods, techniques for avoiding triggers, coping with stress, and relapse prevention offered:

• Support from a cessation counselor and trained smoking cessation coaches
• Individual counseling
• Group counseling
• Print educational materials
• Nicotine replacement therapy (nicotine patches, lozenges, and chewing gum) for those who qualify
• Quit kits
• Snacks during the cessation sessions
• Childcare service while attending the cessation sessions

This program was last offered Fiscal Year 2010.  Due to the State of Maryland’s budget shortfall, the program was discontinued July 2010.