Jefferson County, CO — Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) is encouraging everyone to take a step towards a healthier lifestyle this Mother’s Day, May 14, 2017. Mother’s Day is a time to share and express love for others, and this year it can be a day to support someone you care about with quitting tobacco, or even set an intention to quit in recognition of someone you care about.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the United States has more than 20 million women who currently smoke cigarettes, putting them at risk for developing respiratory disease, cardiovascular disease, cancer and other chronic illnesses such as diabetes. Smoking causes more than 170,000 deaths every year among American women, and additional deaths are caused by the use of other tobacco products such as smokeless tobacco.
The good news is that it is never too late to quit and the body begins to heal shortly after quitting tobacco. Studies have shown that women who are working on quitting tobacco may have different needs than their male counterparts. To respond to these needs, several organizations sponsored women.smokefree.gov, a web-based resource designed for women who want to quit. Packed full of useful tools and support, women.smokefree.gov offers insight into the process of quitting, stating that “Quitting happens. One Craving at a Time; One Monday at a Time; One Decision at a Time.” The site offers customizable quitting resources, information about stress and weight management, mobile apps and text message-based programs.
While celebrating someone you love this Mother’s Day, please also consider utilizing the following services that are available to women at Jefferson County Public Health:
- WIC (Women, Infants and Children) Program offers nutrition education and healthy food for eligible women and their children.
- The Prenatal Plus program is a home visitation program for pregnant women on Medicaid providing case management, nutrition counseling, and psychosocial services.
- Nurse Family Partnership offers home visitations for first-time moms for two years of support.
- Family Planning Program offers women reproductive health services.
Additional Resources:
Below is a list of resources available to help women and their families live a tobacco-free life:
Jefferson County Public Health continues to work toward reducing the toll of tobacco in our communities through sustainable solutions to the problem of tobacco use and exposure. To learn more about current initiatives and how to get involved, please visit www.TobaccoFreeJeffco.com, email [email protected], or call 303-275-7555.
Nikki Work
Public Engagement Coordinator
303-239-7016
[email protected]