MADISON - Wisconsin smokers can get some extra help in their battle to kick the habit.Smokers who call the state's Tobacco Quit Line after January 1st can get a two-week starter kit of nicotine medicines along with coaching help.The cost of the kit is being paid for by the additional one dollar per pack excise tax that takes effect at the beginning of the year.Smoking cessation experts say quitting smoking is traditionally one of the top new year's resolutions.They say if you've tried to quit and were unsuccessful--keep trying, it usually takes between 4 and 6 attempts before a smoker can break the habit.Dr. Michael Fiore, the Director of the UW Center for Tobacco Research and Intervention says "This is a powerful addiction. It's not just some bad habit that you pick-up and put away at the drop of a hat. What we know is that you're most likely to successfully quit if you plan for it, you take steps and use the treatment, we know that it will increase that likelihood." Fiore says the Quit Line began in 2001 and has helped more than 50,000 smokers reduce their dependence on tobacco.The line is available from 7 am until 11 pm 7 days a week.
Story By: Terry Kelley
