Wachs to host New Year–New Lungs event to encourage Southern Nevadans to quit smoking

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 22, 2016

LAS VEGAS — People who quit smoking reap benefits just 20 minutes after they put out their last cigarette when their heart rate drops back to normal. It is one of the most common resolutions people make and from 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 27, Dr. Daliah Wachs is hosting an event called New Year – New Lungs to encourage Southern Nevadans to give up the habit. The event will provide information about smoking cessation resources. It is scheduled to be held at the Active Aging Center on the Touro University Nevada campus, 874 American Pacific Drive, Henderson. For additional information or to RSVP contact Dr. Wachs at doctordaliah@hotmail.com. The American Lung Association and Steinberg Diagnostic Imaging are also sponsors of the event and will attend to answer any questions.

In Clark County, nearly eight of 10 residents are non-smokers. Each year, approximately 1,500 Nevadans under age 18 become daily smokers. About 80 percent of adult smokers became regular smokers before the age of 18. Health care costs are about $1.08 billion for smoking-related illnesses and 4,100 Nevadans die from smoking-related illnesses each year. The average smoker will spend approximately $2,000 annually on cigarettes.

Nevada smokers can contact the Nevada Tobacco Quitline at 1-800-QUIT NOW (800-784-8669) to access a free, phone-based service for anyone age 13 or older; callers will be able to speak with a ’coach’ who can offer quitting assistance. Quitline counselors are available in English and Spanish. The Quitline is available Monday – Sunday, 4 a.m. – 10 p.m. (PT). Through the Quitline program, people can receive a free supply of nicotine replacement patches, gum or lozenges. Coaches will determine eligibility to receive the free therapy. In addition, the Nevada Tobacco Quitline offers a free, online service to assist enrolled participants in accessing research-based information, coaches, and a community of individuals who are in the process of quitting. Coaches can provide information about dealing with stress and fighting cravings, as well as coping with weight gain and other issues that occur when people attempt to quit smoking.

The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.