Ring in the New Year by Becoming Smokefree

ALBANY, NY (12/22/2010)(readMedia)-- The American Lung Association in New York is reminding New Yorkers who want to quit smoking that help is available to ensure their success. The Lung Association offers its Freedom From Smoking ® Online Program that enables smokers to quit at their own pace, and also offers a toll-free Lung HelpLine where callers can receive guidance on quitting and be connected with additional quit smoking resources in their area.

"While every day is a great day to quit smoking, we are well aware that many New Yorkers look to the New Year as the time they'd like to officially set their quit date," said Scott T. Santarella, President and CEO of the American Lung Association in New York. "That's why we're reminding New Yorkers that help is just a click or a phone call away. By signing up for our Freedom From Smoking online program or reaching out to one of our cessation specialists at our Lung HelpLine, smokers can get the help they need to become smokefree."

Santarella noted that more than 25,000 New Yorkers die as a result of their own smoking each year, and many more suffer from smoking-caused illnesses including lung disease. The good news is that the benefits from quitting smoking start almost immediately.

"Quitting smoking is one of the best things people can do to improve their health and extend their life," said Santarella.

The basic Freedom From Smoking online program, is accessible at ffsonline.org and consists of seven modules, each containing several activities. For even greater support, those looking to quit can sign up for an FFS Online Premium membership. A Premium membership to FFS Online includes an in-depth quit smoking program, downloadable relaxation exercises, access to an online support community and other resources to help you quit for good. This program is modeled after the Lung Association's successful Freedom From Smoking clinics, and offers that experience from the comfort of one's own home. Three month memberships are available for $15 and one year memberships are available for $40.

Another valuable resource the Lung Association offers is the Lung HelpLine reachable at 1-800-548-8252 or by calling 1-800-LUNG-USA. The call center is staffed with registered nurses and respiratory therapists trained to answer questions about lung health and offer guidance regarding smoking cessation. You can also send a question to the HelpLine or chat with a specialist by visiting the Lung Association's website at www.alany.org and clicking on Lung HelpLine.

"The most important thing smokers need to know is that they can succeed," said Santarella. "It sometimes takes several attempts to quit but it's important to not be discouraged. Quitting smoking can save your life."

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Now in its second century, the American Lung Association in New York is the leading statewide organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease. With your generous support, the Lung Association is "Fighting for Air" through research, education and advocacy. For more information about the Lung Association, or to support our work, call 1-800-LUNG-USA (1-800-586-4872) or visit www.alany.org.