Health Promotion Programs – Focus on Use of tobacco Cessation Programs.

Benefits of Smoking Cessation Programs

Instances of respiratory illnesses, cancer and other illnesses can be reduced through smoking cessation efforts. Use of tobacco cessation programs can provide immense opportunities for improved health.

The American Cancer Society reports that tobacco use staff cost corporations an average of $1,429 per smoker per year in increased healthcare costs over non-tobacco use staff.

Implementing a smoking cessation program costs an typical of $45 per staff member a year, saving businesses an typical of $1,383 a year for each staff member who quits smoking. Also, the American Cancer Society reports that smokers are absent from work 50% more often than nonsmokers.

They are also 50 percent more likely to be hospitalized and have 15 percent higher disability rates. Use of tobacco decreases onthe- job productivity as well. Staff Members who take four 10- minute smoking breaks a day work more than a month less each year than staff who don’t take smoke breaks.

Places to begin with tobacco use cessation programs -

o  Develop a “buddy” program to provide encouragement for those who commit to stop use of tobacco.

o  Give lung capacity tests at business wellness fairs.

o  Consider reimbursement for smoking cessation tools –  nicotine gum, patches and inhalers.

o  Limit tobacco use areas in the workplace.

o  Provide onsite smoking cessation sessions.