Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline Encourages Oklahomans To Quit Smokeless Tobacco During Through With Chew Week Feb. 19-25

OKLAHOMA CITY – February 17, 2017 – The benefits of quitting smokeless tobacco are endless. Throughout Through With Chew Week, February 19-25, smokeless tobacco users are encouraged to explore the services offered by the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline, a program of the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET).

“During Through With Chew Week, the Helpline is focused on showcasing the FREE support, personalized assistance and tools available to Oklahomans thinking about quitting dip,” said Paola Klein, the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline coordinator. “Whether you prefer text and email support or phone and web coaching, our specially trained quit coaches will work with you on a personalized plan designed to help you be successful in quitting smokeless tobacco.”

According to the 2014 Surgeon General’s Report, smokeless tobacco use has increased steadily since 2004. Contributing factors to this trend include the marketing of smokeless flavors and products at low prices to current or former smokers. While smokers sometimes switch to smokeless tobacco as a method of quitting, it’s still extremely addictive, and someone who dips two cans a week gets as much or more nicotine as a pack-a-day smoker. Holding an average sized dip in your mouth for 30 minutes delivers as much nicotine as four cigarettes.

No matter how long you’ve dipped, quitting has numerous benefits. Almost immediately, your breath will smell better, your mouth will begin healing and you won’t have to worry about stains on your face and teeth.  Plus, you’ll be healthier overall. Smokeless tobacco is linked to cancer of the mouth, throat and pancreas, along with increased risk of heart disease and stroke. 

Giving up smokeless tobacco can be difficult. Because of this, the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline and Through With Chew Week provide FREE assistance including text and email support, phone and web coaching and a two-week supply of patches, gum or lozenges for registered participants.

To learn more about Through With Chew Week, visit OKhelpline.com.

Call 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-800-784-8669) or visit OKhelpline.com to explore all of the free services available to Oklahomans. The Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline’s resources are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year. Call 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-800-784-8669) or visit OKhelpline.com to learn more. Connect with the Helpline through social media by liking the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline on Facebook or following @OKhelpline on Twitter and Instagram.