SWHCS Campuses Become Smoke-Free
For the new year, Southwest Healthcare System is making a system-wide New Year's resolution that we hope will set a good example for our patients and community. On January 1, 2010, the campuses of both Rancho Springs Medical Center and Inland Valley Medical Center will become smoke-free.
If you make just one resolution this year, we encourage you to stop smoking, help a friend or loved one kick the habit or make sure a young person close to you never starts. Being a smoker more than doubles the risk for heart disease and stroke; causes 87 percent of deaths from lung cancer; and results in as many as nine out of 10 deaths from a condition called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD, an incurable disease, is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States.
4 Quick Tips to Help You Quit
Ready to quit smoking? Here are some tips to get you through those first days:- Chew on a toothpick or sugarless gum.
- Keep your hands busy. Work on crossword puzzles or do the dishes.
- Stick around other nonsmokers, if possible.
- Ask your doctor if medicine, a nicotine patch or gum could help.
